A flash flood struck Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, on Tuesday evening, August 12, 2025, triggered by a cloudburst in the higher reaches of Rishi Dogri Valley. The deluge occurred at approximately 7 PM, impacting an ongoing CPWD road construction site near Gangthang Bralam. The sudden surge of water washed away a portion of the trekking route in the Tangling area along the Kinnaur-Kailash Yatra route, stranding hundreds of pilgrims.
The flash flood, which swept through the Hojis Lungpa Nala, caused significant destruction, including engulfing a bridge over the Sutlej River. One person was injured in the incident.
In response to the emergency, the Indian Army launched a high-altitude rescue operation. Upon receiving an urgent request from the Superintendent of Police, Kinnaur, the Army immediately mobilized a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) column. The army deployed its New Generation Equipment, including the Logistics Drone High Altitude (LDHA) system, to reach those stranded. The LDHA system was used to deliver essential supplies such as food and coconut water across the floodwaters. Army personnel also guided civilians to safer, higher ground.
413 pilgrims were rescued by Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel using a rope-based traverse crossing technique and evacuated them to safer locations. The injured individual was evacuated to the Regional Hospital in Reckong Peo. The army rescue team successfully saved four people who were stranded following the flash flood. The rescued individuals were part of a larger group of pilgrims on the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra route.
The rescue operation was challenging, with darkness, fast currents, and unstable terrain posing significant obstacles. The HADR team illuminated the area to aid night rescue operations. The army spokesperson stated that the rescued civilians are under continuous monitoring in Army Camp at Pooh. Plans are in place to bring the stranded individuals back to the home bank once water levels subside.
The Kinnaur district administration, along with ITBP and NDRF teams, were mobilized to continue the rescue operation. The incident has led to the temporary suspension of the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra. Authorities are working to restore connectivity in the affected areas.
