Are Centre and state agencies effectively managing relief and rescue operations in disaster-stricken Uttarkashi?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Uttarkashi is currently facing a significant natural disaster.
- Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is leading the relief efforts on-site.
- Collaboration between state and central agencies is crucial for effective operations.
- Heavy machinery and helicopters are being utilized to restore connectivity.
- The health and well-being of affected individuals are a priority, with hospitals on standby.
Uttarkashi (Uttarakhand), Aug 6 (NationPress) In a display of leadership amid adversity, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the disaster-stricken areas of Uttarkashi on Wednesday, engaging with the victims despite difficult weather. He directed officials to ensure no effort is spared in the ongoing relief and rescue operations, as per an official statement.
The Chief Minister's Office highlighted that state agencies, in collaboration with the Centre, are mobilizing resources for a comprehensive relief effort in the disaster-impacted Dharali region of Uttarkashi.
In a communication via X, the Chief Minister's Office noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Chief Minister Dhami on Wednesday morning to discuss the current situation and relief operations following the natural disaster.
"Prime Minister Modi inquired about the status of the disaster in Dharali and the measures being implemented for relief and rescue," the statement read.
Chief Minister Dhami reassured the Prime Minister that the state government is fully dedicated to the relief efforts. While persistent heavy rainfall has created challenges in certain areas, all agencies are cooperating to ensure rapid assistance to the affected individuals. The Prime Minister also pledged the full support of the Central Government.
During his visit, CM Dhami met with the impacted families, offering his commitment to provide all necessary aid and overseeing the relief operations. He engaged with the teams involved in the rescue efforts and urged officials to guarantee the timely delivery of relief supplies. To expedite aid, essential food and resources have been airlifted to the Dharali area using two helicopters.
At the request of the state government, the Central Government dispatched two Chinook and two MI-17 helicopters to assist in the relief operations.
The Centre has deployed these helicopters from Chandigarh, Sarsawa, and Agra to Jolly Grant Airport, along with heavy machinery to restore road access. A total of 125 Army personnel, alongside 83 ITBP members, are actively engaged in the rescue initiatives. In addition, six BRO officials and over 100 laborers are working to clear blocked roads.
The Health Department has also arranged for beds in multiple hospitals.
"The Health Department has prepared beds in Doon Medical College, Coronation District Hospital, and AIIMS Rishikesh to accommodate the injured. Specialist doctors, including psychiatrists, have been dispatched to Uttarkashi to provide both medical and psychological care in the disaster areas," the post stated.
Various agencies including the Army, ITBP, SDRF, police, and the Revenue Department are all playing vital roles in the rescue missions.
"Teams from the Army, ITBP, SDRF, police, and Revenue Department are actively contributing to the rescue efforts. Relief camps have been established at Inter College Harshil, GMVN, and Jhala. Efforts are underway to restore electricity and communication systems in the region. The NIM and SDRF have begun constructing a temporary bridge in Limchagad," the Chief Minister's Office reported on X.
The state government has dispatched IAS officers, along with IGs and SSP-level IPS officers, to enhance coordination of the relief and rescue operations.
"On Tuesday evening, the state government sent three IAS officers, two IGs, and three SSP-level IPS officers to Uttarkashi for improved coordination in relief efforts," the update concluded.