Israeli Trekker Goes Missing Near Triund, Massive Search Launched
Dharamshala/Kangra:
A solo trekking adventure has turned into a high-stakes rescue operation in the Dhauladhar mountains, as a 30-year-old Israeli-American tourist, identified as Samuel Vengrinovich, has gone missing near the Triund-Indrahar Pass route.
Samuel, who had arrived in McLeodganj earlier this month, embarked on a solo hike towards Triund Ridge around June 6.
He had reportedly left his mobile phone, passport, and belongings at the base camp and did not return. When local hosts noticed his prolonged absence, they informed authorities.
Multinational Effort Underway
The situation quickly escalated, prompting the involvement of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and officials from the Israeli Embassy.
In a rare move, even a special Israeli rescue team has arrived to join the search, highlighting the urgency and seriousness of the case.
Rescuers are combing through the treacherous Indrahar Pass area, a popular but demanding trekking trail known for its sharp ridges, unpredictable weather, and dangerous terrain. Drone surveillance, sniffer dogs, and satellite communication tools have been deployed.
Rescue Teams Battling Odds
Despite the combined efforts, search teams are facing difficulty due to thick fog, slippery rocks, and early evening darkness in the high-altitude zone.
“The terrain is not forgiving. Any misstep can be fatal,” said a senior police officer coordinating the search.
Locals and trekking guides believe the hiker may have either strayed off-path or met with an accident near a ridge or glacier-fed nullah.
“Triund is safe till a point. But the route to Indrahar is not meant for solo or inexperienced trekkers,” said Lobsang Tashi, a veteran guide from McLeodganj.
Embassy Issues Appeal
The Israeli embassy in New Delhi has issued an urgent public appeal, requesting anyone who may have spotted Samuel in recent days to come forward.
His family is reportedly on their way to India and are in touch with officials on the ground.
