Following a devastating cloudburst in Uttarkashi’s Dharali region, massive debris, collapsed roads, and cries for help painted a grim picture. Yet amidst the destruction, it was the Indian Army and ITBP personnel who became a symbol of hope, launching a relentless rescue mission to reach trapped villagers.
All routes leading to Dharali were blocked due to landslides and debris up to 25 feet high. Despite this, Army and ITBP teams began constructing temporary bridges to reach nearly 200 villagers stranded in the area. The rescue operations have intensified with the deployment of additional forces, sniffer dogs, drones, and excavation machines in Harsil.
In Dharali, the body of a 32-year-old man was recovered from the rubble. Rescue efforts continue day and night with the Army, ITBP, NDRF, and other disaster response units working together. Operations are being closely monitored from the disaster control room, and temporary access routes are being created through the thick debris.
The Gangotri Highway remains a major challenge, slowing down the rescue. NDRF DIG Mohsin Shahedi confirmed reports of four deaths and over 50 people missing. Sudden flash floods have also been reported in Harsil and Suki Top. Around 11 soldiers are reported missing in Harsil, though no casualties have been reported in Suki Top.
The Rishikesh-Uttarkashi highway has also been affected, severely hampering the movement of rescue teams. Airlift operations for the affected residents are being prepared from Dehradun.
