In the disaster-hit Dharali region, relief and rescue operations are continuing at a war footing as per the directions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Adequate supplies of essential goods have been ensured for the affected areas, with life-necessities, food items, and various relief materials being delivered continuously. Medical teams, including specialist doctors, are stationed in the disaster zone to provide constant healthcare support. Since the August 5 disaster, rescue operations have been ongoing to evacuate stranded residents and pilgrims from multiple locations. Over the past three days, the Indian Air Force’s Chinook, MI-17, and Cheetah helicopters have airlifted a total of 170 people to Dehradun Airport.
On Saturday alone, 58 pilgrims were brought from Harsil to Dehradun via Chinook and MI-17 helicopters. A team of four scientists from Hyderabad has also been sent to Dharali. Upon arrival at Dehradun Airport, evacuees undergo health check-ups, receive necessary treatment, free medicines, and refreshments before being transported to ISBT Dehradun or Rishikesh for onward travel to their homes. On Saturday, essential relief materials including a 125 kVA generator and oil barrels were also dispatched to Dharali from the airport.
Congress state president Karan Mahara praised the rescue teams and expressed gratitude to the Indian Army, noting their swift action despite the loss of eight soldiers still missing. He urged the formation of a dedicated team to respond to natural disasters. Meanwhile, the district administration has imposed a ban on flying drones in the Dharali and Harsil areas to avoid interference with helicopter operations, according to Additional District Magistrate Mukt Mishra.
