Ongoing Search and Rescue Efforts Amid Devastating Uttarakhand Floods
Search operations are in progress in Dharali, Uttarkashi district, after flash floods caused by heavy rains. Over 400 people have been evacuated so far with rescue efforts focusing on clearing debris, restoring services, and locating missing persons. Coordination among multiple agencies continues as adverse weather impacts operations.
- Country:
- India
The search for missing individuals continues in Dharali town, situated in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, following flash floods that struck hotels and homes on Tuesday, an official reports. 'Yesterday, we managed to evacuate nearly 382 individuals. Our operations are being conducted in three primary directions: evacuating stranded pilgrims from Gangotri, restoring road links, and clearing debris while searching for missing persons in hard-hit Dharali,' said Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey.
He noted that senior officers are dedicated to these tasks. 'Today, we have successfully evacuated 44 more people. Helicopter services remain uninterrupted despite unsuitable conditions for Chinook and Mi helicopters; they will be utilized once the weather clears. The Chief Minister is overseeing the operation in Uttarkashi, ensuring essential supplies are delivered consistently,' he added.
'Two generators are prepared to be airlifted to restore electricity, and internet services are set to be reinstated shortly. Heavy monsoon rains have caused significant disruption, particularly in the state's high-altitude regions, leading to widespread evacuations and relief efforts by several agencies. Two cloudbursts, one in Dharali and another near Sukhi Top, have resulted in severe damage,' he explained.
On Friday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened a meeting with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) officials at a camp office in Uttarkashi to evaluate the ongoing rescue mission in Dharali. Complementing local volunteers, the Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF), ITBP, NDRF, Special Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) are collaborating in joint rescue and relief efforts to find the missing.
Those trapped in the Dharali-Harsil disaster are being rescued via helicopters and transported to the Matli helipad, from where safe passage to their destinations is arranged. NDRF Deputy Inspector General Gambhir Singh Chauhan reports helicopter services have been deployed for evacuations. The Indian Army, NDRF, ITBP, and local administration are working in a coordinated manner both on the ground and in aerial operations.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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