Uttarkashi Cloudburst Sparks Massive Flash Floods and Rescue Efforts

A severe cloudburst in Uttarkashi district has led to destructive flash floods, with rescue teams from ITBP, NDRF, SDRF, and the Indian Army working to evacuate stranded individuals. Over 100 people have been rescued, and numerous others remain missing as operations continue amidst challenging conditions.

A severe cloudburst in Uttarkashi district has unleashed devastating flash floods and landslides, causing extensive damage across the Dharali and Sukhi Top areas. Rescue teams comprising the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Indian Army are intensively working to rescue stranded individuals and locate those missing.

In a focused effort, five teams of ITBP, totaling 130 jawans, are currently deployed in the Dharali region, with an additional 100 jawans on the way. According to Kamlesh Kamal, ITBP Spokesperson, these teams have successfully recovered one body and saved over 100 lives. Kamal expressed optimism regarding the progress of rescue operations with improved communication equipment now in use.

Further, in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur, 413 people have been safely rescued following a flash flood that obliterated a significant section of the trekking path near Tangling. Despite the challenges, teams continue to work tirelessly, with more individuals expected to be rescued by the evening. The risky and partially washed-away Kinnaur Kailash Yatra route has been suspended by district authorities due to the persistent rains.

Despite hurdles posed by blocked roads, NDRF personnel are prepared in Dehradun to airlift those affected. Mohsen Shahedi, DIG of NDRF, reported that four fatalities occurred and over 50 individuals are missing. Flash floods were also recorded in Harsil and Sukhi Top, resulting in 11 Army personnel missing at Harsil. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami surveyed damage sites and coordinated relief operations following a high-level disaster management meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)