Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday visited the PWD Guest House in Uttarkashi to meet families affected by the recent cloudburst and flash floods in Dharali.
During the visit, CM Dhami assured survivors that the state government is doing everything possible to evacuate people safely and promptly.
Among the victims was Mahendra Chauhan, who shared his distress over missing family members. He said, "CM Dhami has assured that very soon, heli services will be started so that people can be rescued from the spot. My sister, her husband and their child have been missing since yesterday. After this incident, I have not been able to speak to them..."
Another resident of Dharali village expressed similar concern about his missing family. He stated, "I am from Dharali village and my younger brother and his family have been missing since yesterday. CM Dhami stated that we are awaiting an improvement in the weather to airlift people to safer locations. CM has assured us that all possible efforts are being made to rescue the people safely..."
PM Modi Reviews Situation, Assures Central Support
Earlier in the day, CM Dhami chaired a disaster management review meeting at the State Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to evaluate the situation in Dharali. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with CM Dhami to get updates on the disaster and the status of ongoing relief operations.
As per an official release, CM Dhami informed the Prime Minister that despite weather-related challenges, all concerned departments are actively involved in rescue and relief work. PM Modi, in turn, assured full support from the central government.
Aerial Survey and On-Ground Operations Continue
The Chief Minister also visited the Joshiyada helipad and conducted an aerial survey to assess the damage caused by the cloudburst. He reviewed the affected areas and monitored the ongoing rescue efforts on the ground.
Rescue operations are currently underway with the combined efforts of the Indian Army, ITBP, SDRF, NDRF, and local volunteers. Both the state and central governments are coordinating closely to ensure that relief reaches the affected areas as quickly as possible.