Uttarkashi (Uttarakhand), Aug 6 (NationPress) - On Wednesday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami undertook an aerial survey of the areas impacted by the recent disaster in Uttarkashi. He urged officials to stay in a state of readiness around the clock after examining the increasing water levels of the river and adjacent regions.

"In Dharali, Uttarkashi, all governmental bodies, departments, and the Army are collaborating on relief and rescue missions. More than 130 individuals were saved last night. Efforts are underway to reopen closed routes and provide all necessary assistance to those affected," CM Dhami stated in a message posted on X.

Additionally, CM Dhami connected with the State Emergency Operations Centre in Uttarkashi via the online control room. He assessed the ongoing relief and rescue efforts with senior administrative officials and Army representatives from the disaster control room in Uttarkashi, directing them to accelerate the relief initiatives.

The Chief Minister highlighted that rescue and medical camps have been set up in the area, ensuring adequate provisions for food and essential supplies for those affected.

"Efforts to clear roads, restore mobile connectivity, and guarantee the supply of rations and essential medications are advancing swiftly. The Indian Air Force's Chinook and MI-17 helicopters are fully prepared for deployment as necessary. Our government is dedicated to prioritizing relief operations and ensuring aid reaches every impacted individual," he emphasized.

In the meantime, another body was recovered from the disaster site early Wednesday.

Moreover, the health department is on high alert due to the cloudburst catastrophe in the Dharali region of Uttarkashi district.

Following Chief Minister Dhami's instructions, health services have been enhanced to ensure timely treatment for those affected in any emergency.

Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar disclosed that beds have been reserved in Dehradun, Rishikesh, and other significant medical facilities to provide immediate care for the injured evacuated from the disaster-hit area.

A total of 150 general beds and 50 ICU beds are set aside at Doon Medical College Hospital in Dehradun, while 80 general beds and 20 ICU beds are reserved in the Coronation District Hospital. Additionally, AIIMS Rishikesh has reserved 50 general beds and 20 ICU beds in light of the disaster.

Arrangements for doctors, nursing staff, paramedics, and medical supplies have also been established in these hospitals, as confirmed by officials.

The emphasis is also on mental health following the tragic cloudburst, with psychiatrists deployed in the affected area.

Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar stated, "It is common for disaster-affected individuals to experience mental stress and depression. To address this, the government has specifically assigned three psychiatrists to the Dharali region for immediate counseling and psychological support."

He noted that this team of doctors will collaborate with the local administration, visiting relief camps and engaging with the community.

The Health Secretary added that Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) and disaster response teams across all districts are on standby. The 108 ambulance service is also operational 24/7.

"No negligence will be tolerated. The Chief Minister has issued clear instructions that no injured or needy individual should be denied treatment. The Health Department is thoroughly prepared for any situation," concluded the Health Secretary.