Earlier, there was uncertainty if the group of 12, in which this mountaineer is the only Indian, would be allowed any further trek.
22-year-old Gupta hails from Ambikapur in Surguja division and is at base camp at a height of 5,200 metres. While the team had already reached on advanced base camp, about 1,200 metre above, they had to come back after suffering continuous jolts and snowfall.
Conversing with media and family mainly through Whatsapp, Rahul was unapproachable for three days after the earthquake, leaving family members worried. When communication services were restored, Rahul revealed that since he chose the North Col route to Everest, he remained safe.
"We had to return to base camp as part of safety protocol. I had spent sleepless nights," he said.
"Chances of avalanche are less here as there's less snow but it's thrilling amid earthquakes and I am still motivated to go ahead. I have experienced seven earthquakes so far," Rahul said on Whatsapp.
He added that amid uncertainty of mission's success, it was on Tuesday that China Meteorological Administration (CMA) gave them green signal. But the team can resume the trek only when the weather is clear and friendly. A new strategy has to be worked upon in next four-five days for the same.
Rahul's brother Sumit Gupta in Ambikapur said that the three days without contact were scary and everyone prayed for the youngest member in family. "TV wasn't switched off for three days. We waited to get some news about Rahul's safety," he said.
Rahul's goal to reach Everest summit point is still 8,848 metre above. A Dubai-based company has facilitated the mountaineers with satellite phones through which they can make emergency calls.
"Our family has already spent nearly Rs 12 lakh for his ambition. Although Chhattisgarh government has sanctioned the required amount of Rs 27 lakh, Rahul is yet to get it in hand," his brother said.
Raman gives Rs 5cr assistance in Nepal:
Chhattisgarh chief minister Raman Singh has announced an assistance of Rs 5 crore to quake-ravaged Nepal for relief and rehabilitation work.
Besides, all the 91 members of state legislative assembly will also contribute their one month's salary for the cause, a publicity officer said.
"Thousands of people died and were injured in earthquake in Nepal. It is our social and moral responsibility to help the affected families," Singh said.
Singh has also appealed to government and non-government employee associations, industrial associations and social service organisations to extend help to earthquake victims.
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