In Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, search operations are ongoing in Dharali days after a devastating cloudburst triggered flash floods and widespread destruction. The disaster, which occurred on Tuesday, caused the Kheer Ganga river to swell, damaging buildings, hotels, and shops in the Dharali market area.

Rescue and relief efforts are being conducted by a joint team comprising the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and local volunteers. As of Friday, the operations continue in three directions: evacuating stranded pilgrims from Gangotri, restoring road connectivity, and clearing debris while searching for the missing in Dharali.

Authorities have evacuated hundreds of people from the affected areas. On Wednesday, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reported that 190 individuals had been rescued from Dharali. As of Thursday, the Indian Army had rescued 260 people and brought them to the Matli helipad in Uttarkashi. Efforts are underway to safely transport those rescued to their final destinations. Approximately 400 people remain stranded in Gangotri and are being evacuated by Army helicopters.

While rescue operations continue, concerns remain about the number of people still missing. Official figures list 16 people as missing, including nine Army personnel and seven civilians. However, local villagers suggest the actual number could be over 100. Three civilian fatalities have been confirmed.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is closely monitoring the situation and receiving regular updates from senior officials. He has been in contact with the Indian Air Force for support, and beds have been reserved in nearby government hospitals and AIIMS Rishikesh. Food and other essential items are being continuously sent to the affected area. Two generators are ready to be transported to restore electricity, and efforts are underway to restore internet connectivity.

The cloudburst and subsequent flooding have caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure in Dharali. A resident of Dharali stated that around 25 homestays were destroyed, and over 100 lives were lost in the tragedy. The Gangotri Highway has also sustained widespread damage, hampering initial rescue attempts.