Indian Army Leads Massive Rescue in Uttarakhand's Flood-hit Regions

The Indian Army, in close coordination with the Indian Air Force, SDRF, NDRF, ITBP, BRO, and civil administration, is leading substantial rescue and relief operations in the flood and landslide-swept regions of Dharali and Harsil, Uttarakhand. Currently, the area remains cut off due to significant landslides, with notable progress reported in road clearance efforts extending to Limchigad, where a Bailey Bridge is being constructed and is expected to be operational by Friday evening.

As weather conditions have cleared in Matli and Harsil, rescue efforts are gaining pace, although visibility and rain challenges over Dehradun have temporarily halted some air sorties. To date, 357 civilians have been evacuated, with 119 safely airlifted to Dehradun. On-ground rescue teams encompass Indian Army columns, combat engineers, medical units, and specialized SAR dog squads. The NDRF has also deployed 105 personnel, collaborating with SDRF and ITBP teams, including medical officers stationed in Harsil and Dharali, as per the Indian Army's statement.

Army medical personnel are rendering urgent medical aid to rescued civilians at transit points. Among the evacuated are 13 Army personnel, and unfortunately, eight soldiers from the 14 Rajputana Rifles are still unaccounted for. The civil administration reports approximately 100 civilians as missing, with two fatalities confirmed. Aviation units are pivotal, conducting 68 helicopter sorties on August 7, including contributions from the Indian Air Force, the Army, and civilian aircraft. A heli-bridging initiative connects Dehradun, Harsil, Matli, and Dharasu ALG, with C-295 aircraft ferrying essential supplies and personnel.

To streamline operations, the Indian Army has set up a Communication Control Room at Harsil, equipped with satellite and Wi-Fi connectivity. BSNL and Airtel are also working to restore public mobile networks. High-ranking military officials, including the General Officer Commanding of the Uttar Bharat Area and the Commander of the 9 (Independent) Mountain Brigade, are on the ground overseeing efforts to ensure seamless collaboration between military and civilian entities.

Plans for August 8, 2025, include completing the Bailey Bridge at Limchigad, airlifting critical relief supplies and equipment, ongoing searches in Harsil and nearby locales, and air evacuations of the remaining stranded individuals to Matli and Dehradun. The Indian Army reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and welfare of the citizens, operating tirelessly alongside other agencies to navigate the challenging terrain and adverse weather, according to ANI.

(With inputs from agencies.)