Cloudburst in Dharali Affects Army's Harsil Camp, Several Soldiers Missing, Rescue Efforts Underway

The cloudburst also impacted the Indian Army's Harsil camp. Official army sources reported that approximately 7 to 10 soldiers are missing, with search operations ongoing.

Several people have also lost their lives in the disaster.

According to reports, the cloudburst occurred at 1:45 PM near Dharali village, just 4 kilometers from the Harsil camp,triggering massive landslides and flood-like conditions, disrupting communication networks.

As soon as the incident occured, a contingent of 150 soldiers was deployed for relief and rescue operations. Army teams, along with local residents, are engaged in relief efforts.

The army stated, "The situation is being closely monitored, and all possible assistance is being provided to the affected people. The Indian Army is fully committed to relief operations."

Following the incident, a district-level emergency control room has been established in Uttarkashi, and a team of specialist doctors has been dispatched to the site.

NDRF Deputy Inspector General Mohsin Shahidi provided updates on the rescue operations in Uttarkashi.

He added, "The NDRF’s focus remains on the disaster-affected village where rescue operations are underway. We have information that an Army team, SDRF, ITBP, and local administration are also engaged in relief and rescue efforts."

Shahidi noted, "Rescue operations in such disasters are extremely challenging as people are often trapped under debris, making extraction difficult. There is also a risk to rescuers, which is why specialized equipment and ropes are used. Around 100 NDRF rescuers are currently deployed in the affected area."

Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand government has deployed three IAS officers to manage the situation in Uttarkashi following the cloudburst.

Reportedly,IAS officers Abhishek Ruhela (2015 batch), Mehrban Singh Bisht (2016 batch), and Gaurav Kumar (2017 batch) have been appointed to coordinate rescue and relief efforts.

These officers will work under the supervision and guidance of the Garhwal Commissioner until further orders. They have been directed to immediately proceed to Uttarkashi district.