Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand: A devastating cloudburst struck the Harsil region of Uttarkashi district on Tuesday afternoon, triggering massive flash floods and mudslides that caused widespread destruction in the area. At least 8–10 Indian Army personnel are reported missing from a camp in the lower Harsil area, officials said.
The cloudburst occurred around 1:40 pm, severely affecting Dharali village, a key halt on the Gangotri pilgrimage route. Homes, hotels, and shops have been destroyed or damaged, with many residents trapped under debris. Rescue teams are working round-the-clock, even at night, to reach those stranded.
Despite their own personnel being unaccounted for, the Indian Army has joined hands with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) in ongoing rescue and relief operations. Three ITBP teams are already on-site, while four NDRF teams are en route.
According to the Indian Army’s Surya Command, a massive mudslide in the Kheer Gad area sent debris surging through Dharali village. Troops from the Ibex Brigade were immediately mobilized to the affected site to assess the situation and begin rescue efforts.
“Extent of damage is being evaluated. Updates will follow as operations progress,” the Army said in a statement.
Union Minister and BJP MP Ajay Bhatt confirmed that multiple rescue teams are on the ground, and aerial support is on standby. “We have reports of four missing so far. Two helicopters are on standby in Sarsawa and two Chinooks in Chandigarh. We are ready to assist as soon as weather permits. Medical and food arrangements have also been made,” Bhatt said.
The district administration has designated the Government Kirti Inter College as a shelter for affected residents from nearby riverine areas. Announcements are being made in Ganga-adjacent regions, advising people to remain alert and move to safer ground.
The Uttarakhand government has deployed three Indian Police Service (IPS) and three Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers in Uttarkashi to coordinate ongoing disaster management operations.
Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force confirmed that Mi-17 V5, Chinook, Cheetah, and ALH helicopters are on standby at Chandigarh airbase, equipped and ready for deployment once the weather clears.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have expressed condolences and assured all possible assistance to the state. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to carry out rescue operations on a war footing.
