A devastating flash flood struck last Tuesday in Uttarkashi district, demolishing half of Dharali village. Positioned as a crucial stop on the Gangotri pilgrimage, the village is considered a source of the Ganges. Relief efforts persisted on Wednesday amidst pouring rain, intensifying the search for those trapped under debris. So far, around 190 individuals have been rescued, and five deaths confirmed, though dozens, including 11 soldiers, remain missing.
On Wednesday, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial survey of the affected area, asserting that Dharali is severely hit by the disaster. He reported that army, ITBP, and SDRF teams are extensively involved in relief operations, having rescued 190 people from both sides of Dharali—120 on one side and 70 on the other.
Debris Continuously Wreaks Havoc
CM Dhami mentioned that the region experienced numerous debris flows after the event. On-site, locals recounted multiple instances of debris causing extensive damage. The injured are being transported to Uttarkashi for primary care, with referrals to higher centers and AIIMS as needed. The state government assures complete responsibility for the victims' medical care.
Source: aajtak
Harsil Helipad Submerged, Communication Disrupted
CM Dhami reported water accumulation from a nearby lake has entirely submerged roads and the Harsil helipad, halting aerial assistance. Furthermore, both electricity and mobile networks in the area have completely shut down. Many connecting roads and bridges have been swept away, including a bridge near Lachchi Guard at Ganganani, submerged by disaster.
Rescue and Restoration Efforts Remain Challenging
The Chief Minister stated that the rescue effort and restoring all infrastructure pose significant challenges amidst persistent adverse weather. Despite two failed attempts, he finally managed to reach the location on his third try. The disaster management department, PWD, and the army have started restoration works, with strict instructions for all agencies to rapidly restore roads, electricity, and communication networks.
Prime Minister Assures Help
CM Dhami noted Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally called, promising full assistance. Under Prime Minister's guidance, the state government is committed to delivering relief promptly and tirelessly ensures no one waits for aid.
Rescue Operations Face Intense Difficulties
It's noteworthy that more than 24 hours since the disaster, the rescue team from Uttarkashi District Headquarters has not yet been able to reach Dharali. While an SDRF team stationed at Gangotri Dham has engaged in relief efforts shortly after the incident. Current relief operations in Dharali are primarily led by ITBP and the Indian Army stationed at Harsil, with administrative sources indicating severe damage to the army camp there.
Source: aajtak
Highways Blocked, Rescue Teams Stranded at Bhatwari
Since the incident, a rescue team that left the district headquarters at two in the afternoon has not yet reached Dharali due to extensive damage to the Gangotri National Highway. Roads near Netala and Bhatwari have been closed, with large stretches of the Gangotri Highway completely washed away by the Bhagirathi River, trapping rescue teams and media at Bhatwari.
BRO's Rescue Path Keeps Failing
The BRO's continual attempts to clear routes face failures as freshly set paths collapse again, severely hindering rescue operations.
For the past 24 hours, the DM and SP couldn't access the incident site either, now being deployed via helicopter. The BRO's concrete bridge at Ganganani has been entirely washed away, precluding manual equipment use to open roads. The administration is planning a bailey bridge construction.
Heli Operations Initiated, Relief Supplies Dispatched
According to senior civil aviation officer IAS Dr. Ashish Chauhan, heli operations commenced under the Chief Minister's instructions as weather permitted. Food supplies have been dispatched from Dehradun to affected areas, while evacuating individuals are being relocated to Uttarkashi and Dehradun.
