A cloudburst in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district has resulted in a devastating situation, with multiple casualties and significant destruction reported. Initial reports indicate that at least four people have died, and over 50 are missing, including army personnel. The disaster struck the lower Harsil area, where a cloudburst triggered flash floods and a massive mudslide.
According to officials, between 8 and 10 Indian Army soldiers are unaccounted for from a camp in the lower Harsil area. Despite the loss of their own personnel, the Indian Army is actively involved in search, rescue, and relief operations in the flood-ravaged region. Approximately 150 army personnel were mobilized to the disaster site with specialized medical and rescue equipment. So far, the army has rescued 20 people, and the injured are receiving treatment.
The cloudburst occurred in the Dharali village area, near Kheer Gad, unleashing a torrent of water, rocks, and debris through the narrow Himalayan terrain. The sudden surge swept through homes and roads, washing away entire sections of the settlement. Videos circulating on social media show the extent of the devastation, with homes being swept away by the force of the floodwaters and villagers fleeing for their lives. It is estimated that 40-50 houses have been washed away.
Uttarkashi District Magistrate Prashant Arya stated that rescue teams from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, and local authorities are working tirelessly. The Central Command of the Indian Army confirmed that Dharali village was one of the worst-hit areas, with a "massive mudslide triggering a sudden flow of debris and water".
The Air Force has also been mobilized, with Mi-17 V5, Chinook, Cheetah, and ALH helicopters on standby at the Chandigarh air base. These helicopters are equipped with the necessary material and are prepared to take off as soon as weather conditions improve in the affected region.
Authorities have advised residents to evacuate areas near the Bhagirathi River due to the risk of flash floods caused by a temporary lake formed by the cloudburst.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to those affected by the tragedy and assured that relief efforts are underway. He has also spoken with Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami to obtain information about the situation. The Uttarakhand government has deployed three IAS officers to the district.
