Uttarkashi — A powerful cloudburst struck the Harsil region of Uttarkashi district on Tuesday afternoon, unleashing sudden and destructive flashfloods that left at least 10 Army personnel missing and caused widespread devastation in Dharali village, a significant halt for pilgrims headed to Gangotri.
The cloudburst occurred around 1:40 pm, followed by a fierce mudslide that swept through the Kheer Gad area in Dharali, carrying debris and water into the settlement. Homes, shops, and hotels bore the brunt of the impact, with several structures reduced to rubble. Many others remain partially damaged, and emergency crews are working non-stop to reach those trapped inside.
Despite the loss of its own personnel, the Indian Army has launched an aggressive rescue operation, underscoring its commitment to public safety during natural disasters. Troops from the Ibex Brigade under the Army’s Surya Command were immediately deployed to assist in rescue efforts.
“The troops were mobilised without delay,” the Army said in a statement, adding that operations are being conducted in coordination with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
Three ITBP teams have already reached the disaster-hit zone, with more reinforcements expected. The combined forces are navigating through layers of mud and debris to locate missing individuals and evacuate affected residents.
Authorities have not yet confirmed any fatalities, but the scale of the destruction suggests that the toll could rise. Relief camps are being set up in safer areas, while aerial surveys are being considered to assess the damage and speed up operations.
