Dramatic visuals continue to emerge, capturing the full scale of devastation caused by cloudbursts and flash floods in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district, even as a massive multi-agency rescue operation
unfolds in the disaster-hit region.
Videos from the ground show collapsed roads, washed-away bridges, debris-strewn terrain, and raging mountain streams cutting off entire stretches. The situation remains critical, particularly in Dharali, one of the worst-hit areas.
A high-intensity rescue operation involving the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local residents has already saved over 130 people, according to officials.
“We are putting in all efforts to rescue everyone safely,” said Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, confirming that damaged roads and a collapsed bridge were making access extremely difficult.
“The Disaster Operations Station in Dehradun is working 24 hours to provide all possible assistance.”
The CM also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his constant support and said the PM continues to closely monitor the situation. “PM Modi took the details of the rescue operation today as well,” Dhami added.
The extent of destruction came into sharp focus as visuals showed entire sections of the Uttarkashi-Harsil road washed away, particularly near Bhatwadi, leaving areas like Dharali completely cut off.
Massive earth-moving equipment, including JCBs, is being used to clear debris and restore access to remote stretches.
Two separate cloudburst incidents — one in Dharali and another near Sukhi Top — have led to widespread damage, with several homes, shops, and stretches of road swept away.
Several people remain missing, and mudslides continue to pose a risk across the hill district.
Army Choppers On Standby
Indian Army helicopters are also on standby for aerial evacuation, but their deployment has been delayed due to poor weather conditions. “
As soon as the weather improves, helicopters will be used. Food packets and a team of doctors have also been prepared,” said CM Dhami, noting that communication lines in Dharali remain down.
Over 160 police officials, including 10 DSPs and 3 SPs, have been deployed in the field, working alongside NDRF and SDRF teams. Mobile connectivity remains suspended in several affected areas, further complicating rescue efforts.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of continued heavy rainfall across Uttarakhand, raising fears of further landslides and flash floods in the days ahead.
Centre Assures Assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to those affected, stating, “I express my condolences to the people affected by this tragedy in Dharali, Uttarkashi. I pray for the well-being of all the victims.” He said he had spoken to CM Dhami and was in constant touch for updates.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also assured all necessary Central support and directed the deployment of additional NDRF and ITBP teams.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath also spoke with Dhami and extended his government’s support.
The full scale of the disaster is still being assessed, even as rescuers race against time and terrain to reach those still stranded in the hills.
