News from Himachal Pradesh: A significant breakthrough has been achieved in the ongoing search for remains from an Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-12 aircraft, which tragically crashed over Rohtang Pass more than 56 years ago. The recent recovery of four additional bodies marks a pivotal moment in one of India’s longest-running search operations. This recovery was accomplished by a collaborative effort between the Indian Army’s ‘Dogra Scouts’ and ‘Tiranga Mountain Rescue’ teams.
Background of the AN-12 Aircraft Crash
The twin-engine AN-12 transport aircraft vanished on February 7, 1968, shortly after departing from Chandigarh en route to Leh, containing 102 individuals on board. According to military officials, this remarkable development has breathed new life into the ongoing search and rescue mission aimed at recovering the remains of the personnel who perished in the incident.
Historical Context and Previous Searches
The wreckage of the AN-12 aircraft remained frozen within an icy landscape for decades. In 2003, climbers from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Mountaineering Institute first discovered the airplane’s remnants. Over the years, the Indian Army has conducted multiple search operations, particularly driven by the Dogra Scouts, in 2005, 2006, 2013, and 2019. Due to the remoteness of the crash site and harsh weather conditions, by 2019, rescuers had managed to recover only five bodies.
Recent Developments in Recovery Operations
The latest recovery efforts, spearheaded by the ‘Chandra Bhaga Mountain Expedition,’ have successfully retrieved four more bodies, instilling hope within the families of the deceased and the nation at large. Among the identified remains are those of Malkhan Singh, constable Narayan Singh, and craftsman Thomas Charan, who hailed from the Elanthoor area in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala.
Identification of Remains
Identification of the remains turned out to be a meticulous process. Malkhan Singh was confirmed through documentation found among the wreckage. Singh, who served in the Army Medical Corps, was identified as a resident of Kolpadi village in Chamoli tehsil of Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Investigators are still working on identifying the fourth body, relying on information from the deceasedโs close relatives.
The Human Element of This Tragic Event
For the families involved, the recovery of these remains is not just about closure; it symbolizes hope and the enduring spirit of the nation. Thomas Charanโs closest relative, his mother Aleema, has been informed about the recent recovery, highlighting the emotional toll these long years of uncertainty have had on families awaiting news of their loved ones.
Conclusion
This search operation not only represents a crucial step in honoring the memory of those lost but also showcases the relentless dedication of the Indian Army and rescue teams. As the country moves forward, these recoveries will serve as a significant reminder of the sacrifices made in service to the nation. The search continues as efforts are made to bring closure to the families of all those who were aboard the AN-12 aircraft.
