What Happened in Uttarakhand? 50 Civilians, JCO, 8 Soldiers Still Missing in Dharali
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Synopsis
A tragic cloudburst in Uttarakhand's Dharali resulted in the disappearance of 50 civilians, 8 soldiers, and a Junior Commissioned Officer. With rescue operations ongoing and weather challenges complicating efforts, the Army and ITBP are working tirelessly to provide aid and restore connectivity in the affected areas.
Key Takeaways
- 50 civilians, 8 soldiers, and a JCO are missing in Dharali.
- The area remains inaccessible due to severe damage from landslides.
- Over 225 Army personnel are engaged in rescue operations.
- 70 civilians have been rescued so far.
- Efforts are ongoing to restore connectivity and assist stranded tourists.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) At least 50 civilians, eight soldiers, and a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) remain unaccounted for following a devastating cloudburst that caused flash floods and landslides in Dharali, located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand earlier this week.
The cloudburst that struck the Dharali area near Harsil on August 5 rendered the region largely inaccessible, with critical roadways such as Bartwari, Linchigad, Gangrani, Harsil, and Dharali suffering severe damage.
Additionally, approximately 180–200 tourists are trapped in Gangotri.
The Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) are actively supplying these stranded tourists with food, medical assistance, and shelter.
Restoration efforts are ongoing; however, weather and terrain obstacles continue to pose challenges.
According to Army reports, tourists are being evacuated from the Nelong helipad on return missions. The military helipad at Harsil is fully operational.
The Nelong helipad is functional and connected by road to Gangotri, facilitating smoother movement for tourists and rescue personnel.
Nonetheless, the Dharali civil helipad is currently non-operational due to a mudslide.
The Army is closely collaborating with civil authorities and other organizations to enhance Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
With roads blocked and communications disrupted due to several landslides, the Army is tirelessly working to rescue stranded civilians, provide medical support, and restore vital connectivity.
More than 225 Army personnel, including engineers, medics, and rescue specialists, are deployed on the ground.
A Reeco Radar team is actively engaged in Tekla, with a second team being dispatched.
Army officials noted that search and rescue dogs have also been deployed in essential sectors to help locate survivors and missing individuals.
Air assets are now positioned for comprehensive support.
Chinook and Mi-17 helicopters at Jolly Grant Airport have been mobilized to airlift troops and evacuate civilians as weather conditions allow.
Five civilian helicopters are operating from Sahastradhara, transporting personnel and supplies across Matli, Bhatwari, and Harsil in coordination with SDRF.
An ad-hoc aviation base is being set up at the Matli Helipad (ITBP) to accelerate helicopter missions, officials stated.
As per Army reports, 70 civilians have been rescued thus far, three casualties have been confirmed, and over 50 people remain missing according to civil authorities.
The Army reported that nine Army personnel and three civilians have been airlifted to Dehradun, while three seriously injured civilians have been transported to AIIMS Rishikesh by road, and eight others are receiving treatment at the District Hospital in Uttarkashi.
The bodies of two deceased civilians have been recovered.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Dharali to evaluate the situation and oversee response efforts.
The Chief of Staff, Central Command, is collaborating closely with HQ Central Air Command to coordinate helicopter deployments.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the dedication of the Army and local authorities in their rescue efforts. The impact of natural disasters is profound, and our commitment must be to support those affected and ensure swift recovery and restoration.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the missing persons in Dharali?
The missing individuals are a result of a cloudburst that triggered flash floods and landslides in the region.
How many people are currently missing?
Currently, at least 50 civilians, 8 soldiers, and a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) are reported missing.
What assistance is being provided to the stranded tourists?
The Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police are providing food, medical aid, and shelter to the stranded tourists.
What efforts are being made for rescue operations?
The Army has deployed over 225 personnel, including engineers and medics, and is using helicopters for evacuation.
Has there been any loss of life reported?
Yes, three casualties have been confirmed, and the bodies of two deceased civilians have been recovered.
