Uttarakhand Battles Nature's Fury: Relief Operations in Full Swing as Roads Crumble

Following relentless heavy rainfall, Uttarakhand is grappling with severe infrastructure damage, particularly along the NH-34 highway connecting Uttarkashi and Gangotri. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) reported that a critical 100-meter section near Papadgad was completely washed away, while a massive pile of debris has obstructed the road near Dharali. Repair crews face relentless challenges amid ongoing adverse weather conditions.

In response to this escalating crisis, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened a disaster management meeting at the State Emergency Operations Centre. The focus was to evaluate the aftermath of the cloudburst and flash floods in Dharali, Uttarkashi. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted Chief Minister Dhami to inquire about the unfolding situation and has expressed his concern for those impacted by the natural disaster.

Chief Minister Dhami assured the Prime Minister that the state government's relief and rescue efforts are in full motion, notwithstanding the obstacles posed by continuous rains. All relevant agencies are collaborating closely to deliver swift aid to affected areas. Prime Minister Modi has pledged comprehensive support from the central government. As part of the ongoing relief operations, Dhami conducted aerial surveys of impacted areas and personally assessed the situation at the Joshiyada helipad. With combined efforts from state and central agencies—comprising the Indian Army, ITBP, SDRF, and NDRF—the rescue mission has successfully saved 130 individuals so far. Despite infrastructural constraints, relentless rescue operations continue to ensure the safety of all residents.

(With inputs from agencies.)