In the aftermath of devastating cloudbursts and mudslides in Uttarkashi district, the Indian Army, led by Colonel Harshvardhan of the 14 Rajputana Rifles, has rescued over 70 civilians from affected areas including Harsil, Dharali, and Mukhwa.
“This morning, we established crossings from Dharali to Mukhwa and Harsil and safely evacuated 70-80 civilians to the army camp,” Col Harshvardhan said, adding that another 100 people had taken shelter overnight at the camp.
The region has been severely impacted by flash floods and landslides triggered by twin cloudbursts—one in Dharali and another at Sukhi Top—which cut off road access, disrupted communication networks, and submerged multiple stretches.
“The area remains cut off at many points. Roads and helipads are inundated, and there is no mobile connectivity,” Col Harshvardhan noted.
The Indian Army is intensifying relief efforts with the deployment of:
- Additional rescue columns to Gangotri and Dharali
- Earth-moving equipment to clear blocked roads
- Drones and tracker dogs to locate missing individuals
- Medical aid and food supplies for evacuated civilians
A body was recovered on Wednesday morning during search operations, while 50–60 labourers were also evacuated after a flash flood struck the army camp.
“Our camp was hit by a flash flood and mudslide at 3:30 AM. Despite being cut off, we evacuated all the labourers working there,” Harshvardhan added.
Meanwhile, the Army and Air Force helicopters are on standby to drop essential supplies and evacuate stranded residents, depending on weather clearance.
In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) reaffirmed the Army’s full commitment: “Evacuated individuals are receiving medical aid and food. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing with a focus on reaching every affected person.”
The disaster has left a trail of destruction, washing away homes, shops, and roads. With rescue operations underway, authorities continue to assess the full scale of damage in Harsil Valley and nearby regions.
