Dehradun: A major tragedy was averted at the Sri Reetha Sahib Gurdwara in Champawat district on Sunday after the rescue of more than 50 pilgrims who were trapped in a swollen river during the annual Jod Mela, officials said.According to officials, a State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) team had been deployed at the fair venue in advance, keeping in view the heavy rush of pilgrims and weather conditions.This advance deployment proved crucial when sudden rainfall in the region caused the water levels of the Ladhiya and Ratiya rivers to rise.Over 50 pilgrims, who were bathing at the confluence of the two rivers before heading to the gurdwara for darshan, found themselves trapped in the middle of the surging waters. Several vehicles parked near the riverbed were also caught in the rising water, triggering panic.Read More: "A ray of hope": PM Modi hails 'Namami Gange Abhiyan' initiative for saving trapped Gangetic dolphin in UPAn SDRF team immediately reached the spot and launched a rescue operation. Despite the strong currents and challenging conditions, the personnel safely escorted all the stranded pilgrims across the river, the officials said, adding that the team also assisted in moving the trapped vehicles to safer ground.Local and traffic police were informed immediately, after which barriers were placed on both sides to regulate movement and prevent other devotees from approaching the river.All individuals were evacuated safely and no casualties were reported, SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduwanshi said, adding that the advance deployment helped them ensure a swift response.In view of the continuous rainfall across the state, all SDRF units have been directed to maintain a high state of alert, monitor sensitive areas, and ensure immediate action in case of emergencies, he added.