Strategic Airlifts: ITBP in Uttarkashi's Cloudburst Rescue Mission

The Uttarakhand government reported a significant rescue effort in Uttarkashi following a recent cloudburst that has wrought havoc in the district. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) successfully airlifted 44 individuals to safety as of Thursday morning, transporting them via helicopter to Matli before ensuring their safe transit to their respective destinations.

Rescue operations remain ongoing in the severely hit areas of Dharali and Harsil. A collaborative force, including the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Uttarakhand Police, and local administration, has undertaken a massive operation to rescue inhabitants and pilgrims caught in the aftermath of the storm.

Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey provided an update, stating that two seriously injured individuals have been referred from the Health Camp in Matli to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced care. Meanwhile, the IAF Chinook is set to transport NDRF personnel and necessary supplies from Jolly Grant Airport to affected zones. Authorities, with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's direct oversight, are intensifying efforts to restore normalcy following extensive road damage.

(With inputs from agencies.)