Uttarkashi Flash Floods: Rescue Operations Intensify in Dharali

Dehradun, Aug 6 (PTI) Heavy rains persistently lashed Uttarkashi as rescue operations resumed on Wednesday in Dharali, where teams are searching for victims of the flash floods amid the wreckage. Nearly half of Dharali village, known for its scenic beauty and serving as a main stopover on the way to Gangotri, where the Ganga River originates, was devastated by flash floods following a cloudburst on Tuesday afternoon. Four deaths have been confirmed, and approximately 130 people have been evacuated to safety. Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami conducted an aerial survey of the flooded area.

"The rescue efforts are ongoing. The army, ITBP, and SDRF teams have reached the location. Around 70-80 individuals have been rescued. A road has been blocked, and the DM, along with an SP-rank officer, are heading to the location. It's a challenging situation as rains continue," he told PTI Videos. Dhami assured that provisions for medicines and food are in place, with 160 police personnel, including 10 senior officers and three SP-rank officers, overseeing the distribution of supplies. Three nodal officers have been appointed from the CM's office.

"Every life matters to us," the chief minister remarked. The Indian Army has deployed MI-17 and Chinook helicopters for the search and rescue of the stranded individuals. At least 60 people are missing, although this number is expected to rise, as many were attending the Har Dudh fair in Dharali village when the disaster unfolded. The missing include 11 soldiers, as stated by Defence spokesperson Lt Col Manish Shrivastava. Colonel Harshvardhan, Commanding Officer of 14 Raj Rif, is at the forefront of the relief and rescue operations with a 150-member team. Despite the unfortunate situation of soldiers missing and its base being hit, the team continues to work with full dedication and bravery, Shrivastava stated.

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