How Many Have Been Evacuated So Far in Dharali's Massive Rescue Operation?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 1,273 people evacuated from disaster area.
- Emergency response teams include the Indian Army and NDRF.
- Relief camps provide essential services like food and medical aid.
- Challenges faced include difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions.
- Restoration of normalcy is a priority for local authorities.
Uttarkashi, Aug 10 (NationPress) - In a significant air rescue mission, a total of 1,273 individuals stranded in the disaster-affected area of Dharali have been successfully evacuated by helicopter to safer locations such as Matli helipad, Chinyalisaur airstrip, and Dehradun. This large-scale evacuation is part of the ongoing efforts to provide relief following a natural disaster that impacted the region earlier this month.
On August 5, intense rainfall and an unexpected cloudburst triggered flash floods and landslides in Bhatswari Tehsil, severely affecting the villages of Dharali, Kheragad, and Harsil. The rising waters overwhelmed local streams, leading to the inundation of the Harsil Army Camp.
This disaster resulted in significant damage to various residential buildings and hotels. The Gangotri National Highway (NH-134) was obstructed at several points over a 5-km stretch between Dabrani and Son Gad, isolating many residents and tourists.
In response, emergency teams comprising the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) were deployed swiftly.
Prioritization was given to road clearing operations and the construction of a Bailey bridge at Limchagad to re-establish connectivity. By August 8, electricity and telecom services were restored, with wireless emergency communication systems set up in remote areas.
Helicopter missions conducted by the Indian Air Force and Army aviation units utilized Chinook, MI-17, and ALH helicopters to evacuate those stranded and to transport essential relief supplies, including food, medical kits, fuel, solar lights, blankets, and hygiene products to the affected communities.
Sadly, the disaster claimed the life of 32-year-old Akash Panwar from Dharali. His family has been granted financial aid as compensation and immediate relief.
Relief camps have been established at Matli, Harsil, and Chinyalisaur, providing shelter, food, medical assistance, and psychological support. Thirteen relatives of missing persons are receiving assistance in these camps. Medical teams have conducted over 450 health screenings, ensuring prompt treatment of injuries and illnesses.
The District Supply Department has coordinated food distribution using pre-stocked supplies of rice and wheat in Jhala and Bhatwari, continuing to cater to the nutritional needs of the affected population.
Senior officials, including the District Magistrate, Chief Development Officer, and Tehsildar of Bhatwari, remain actively involved on the ground. The Additional District Magistrate supervised helicopter operations from the Matli and Chinyalisaur helipads.
Despite the challenging terrain and weather conditions, the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies have ensured successful rescue and relief operations, highlighting the commitment to restoring normalcy in the region as swiftly as possible.