The multi-agency rescue operation at the NTPC hydel project site has been going on uninterrupted since Sunday, when a possible glacier break in the upper reaches of the Himalayas triggered an avalanche and floods in the Alaknanda river system, with no breakthrough in sight, officials said.
India's COVID-19 infection tally climbed to 1,08,47,304 with 9,110 new cases in a day, while 1,05,48,521 people have recuperated so far pushing the national recovery rate to 97.25 per cent on Tuesday, according to Union Health Ministry data.
The State Emergency Operation Centre said five bodies were found in the morning, taking the death toll to 31, and estimated that 175 people are still missing.
As rescue operation is underway at the tunnel where 39people are trapped, Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Kumar on Tuesday said it is hoped that the way will be cleared by noon.