What is the latest on the Uttarakhand flash floods in Harsil and Dharali?
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Synopsis
As Uttarkashi grapples with the aftermath of devastating flash floods, rescue operations are in full swing. With over 800 personnel involved, airlifts, and medical teams on-site, the state is working tirelessly to aid those affected. Discover how these efforts are unfolding amidst the chaos and tragedy.
Key Takeaways
- The rescue operation has been ongoing for five days.
- Over 800 personnel are involved in the efforts.
- 382 individuals have been successfully evacuated so far.
- Medical teams are actively providing aid to the affected population.
- Access to affected areas remains challenging due to damaged infrastructure.
Dehradun, Aug 9 (NationPress) Relief and rescue efforts are ongoing for the fifth consecutive day in Uttarkashi district, which has been severely impacted by flash floods. The Army, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) are collaboratively working to assist those affected in Harshil and Dharali.
According to a post from Uttarkashi Police on social media platform X, as of 8 A.M. on Saturday, ITBP personnel have been relocated to Matli.
The post further indicated, “Individuals trapped in the disaster-stricken areas are being airlifted.”
Chinook and Cheetah helicopters are engaged in airlifting stranded pilgrims to the elevated terrains of Dharali and Harsil. Additionally, medical teams stationed at various sites are providing assistance to those impacted.
A rescue team consisting of over 800 members from the Army, ITBP, NDRF, SDRF, state government, and local authorities are actively participating in the rescue mission. Numerous medical teams are also present in Dharali, Harsil, and Matli to offer swift first-aid treatment.
The rescue teams have successfully evacuated 382 individuals from Harsil, one of the locations severely affected by the relentless flash floods.
To airlift individuals trapped in areas affected by cloudbursts, two Chinook helicopters, two MI-17 helicopters, and four Air Force helicopters have been deployed.
In the mudslide-impacted regions, 274 individuals were airlifted from Gangotri to Harsil, 19 from Gangotri to Neelang, 260 from Harsil to Matli, 112 from Harsil to Jolly Grant airstrip, and 382 from Harsil.
The state’s Food and Supply Department is arranging meals for the displaced communities and delivering them to the affected areas.
In Dharali, at least 50 civilians, eight jawans, and a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) remain unaccounted for following a cloudburst that led to flash floods and landslides on August 5.
Since the cloudburst, access to the area has been largely restricted, with vital road connections at Bartwari, Linchigad, Gangrani, Harsil, and Dharali suffering extensive damage.
The Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police are providing essential services including food, medical assistance, and shelter to the stranded tourists.
Point of View
The situation in Uttarkhand highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of coordinated disaster response. As the nation rallies together to support those affected, it is imperative to ensure that such tragedies are addressed with preparedness and compassion. NationPress stands firm in its commitment to report on these critical issues.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flash floods in Uttarkhand?
The flash floods were triggered by a cloudburst on August 5, leading to severe flooding and landslides in several areas.
How many people have been rescued so far?
As of now, over 382 individuals have been successfully evacuated from Harsil.
What agencies are involved in the rescue operations?
The rescue operations involve the Army, ITBP, NDRF, SDRF, state government, and local administration.
What support is being provided to the affected individuals?
Affected individuals are receiving food, medical assistance, and shelter from the rescue teams.
Are there still people missing?
Yes, at least 50 civilians, eight jawans, and one JCO are still missing after the disaster.
