Uttarkashi flash floods: Army says rescue operations intensified, ad-hoc aviation base set up at Matli Helipad

The Army, in close coordination with other authorities, continues to intensify Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations in the flash flood-affected area of Dharali, near Harsil in Uttarakhand, according to an official statement.

Over 225 troops, including specialised engineer and medical teams, are on the ground conducting rescue and relief tasks under extremely challenging conditions, the statement said.

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The Army has employed drones for aerial survey to locate stranded individuals in inaccessible areas.

Due to obstruction in road connectivity at Bartwari, Linchigad, Gangrani and near Dharali, Chinook, evacuations are happening through airlifting, the statement said, adding that the Army has positioned Mi-17 helicopters at Dehradun for airlift operations, while an ad-hoc aviation base is being established at Matli Helipad.

“Recco radar teams, search-and-rescue dogs, and five civil helicopters operating from Sahastradhara continue to augment efforts, leading to the rescue of 70 civilians so far,” the Army has stated, adding that it is conducting the rescue operation round-the-clock in close coordination with the state administration, SDRF, ITBP and local police.

The Army has said that three civilian fatalities have been confirmed, over 50 remain missing, and 9 Army personnel (1 JCO and 8 OR) are feared missing following extensive damage to an Army post. It has reached out to approximately 180–200 tourists stranded at Gangotri and they are being provided food, shelter and medical support by the Army and ITBP.

The statement said, “With Lt. gen. Sengupta, Army Commander Central Command and GOC UB Area present at Dharali, and seamless coordination underway with HQ Central Air Command, every possible effort is being made to ensure the safe evacuation and care of all affected. The Indian Army stands firm with the people of Uttarakhand in this hour of need.”