Operation Dharali: Over 350 Rescued In Uttarakhand; Search On For Missing Soldiers And Civilians

In the flood and landslide-affected regions of Dharali and Harsil in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, more than 357 civilians have been rescued as of Friday through combined air and ground missions across the state.

Among those rescued, 119 individuals have been airlifted to Dehradun, and 13 Army personnel have also been safely evacuated.

Tragically, two civilian fatalities have been confirmed.

Meanwhile, eight soldiers from the 14 RAJ RIF remain unaccounted for, and around 100 civilians are still missing, according to the civil administration.

The Indian Army is leading a large-scale rescue and relief effort called ‘Operation Dharali’. It is working closely with multiple agencies in the affected areas.

Despite challenging terrain and damaged infrastructure, the Army, alongside the Indian Air Force, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and civil authorities, are conducting operations with urgency and precision.

Dharali remains isolated due to extensive landslides, though road clearance has progressed up to Limchigad.

A Bailey Bridge is currently under construction and is anticipated to be completed by this evening.

Air Support and Heli-Bridging

On 7 August, a total of 68 helicopter sorties were carried out, including six by the IAF, seven by the Army, and 55 by civilian operators.

Heli-bridging operations continue to connect Dehradun, Harsil, Matli, and Dharasu ALG, utilising C-295 aircraft to ferry supplies and evacuate civilians.

The Army has deployed specialist rescue teams, medical staff, and search-and-rescue dogs, while the NDRF and SDRF have joined with 105 personnel and 10 trained dogs.

The ITBP has placed teams and medical officers in Harsil and Dharali.

Medical teams comprising doctors, combat medics, and nursing assistants are providing care both on-site and en route.

A Communication Control Room equipped with satellite connectivity and operational Wi-Fi has been established in Harsil.

Meanwhile, BSNL and Airtel are working to restore public network services.

Senior Army leaders, including the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Uttar Bharat Area and the Commander of the 9 (I) Mountain Brigade, are on site to oversee and coordinate the relief activities.

Officials confirmed plans for the Bailey Bridge’s completion at Limchigad remain on schedule.

The Army continues aerial delivery of relief materials and rescue equipment. Additionally, it is conducting search operations in Harsil and neighbouring villages. Furthermore, the evacuation of stranded civilians from Harsil to Matli and Dehradun is ongoing.

The Indian Army reaffirmed its commitment to continuous operations. It emphasised its dedication to the safety and welfare of those affected, working closely with all responding agencies.

Also Read: PM Modi To Convene Cabinet Over US Tariff Hike On Indian Goods