Several individuals stranded in disaster-hit areas of Uttarkashi were rescued and brought to Harsil on Thursday, bringing the total number of rescued people to 409, Uttarakhand officials involved in the ongoing relief and rescue efforts confirmed.
Two days after torrential rains caused widespread destruction in the Uttarkashi region of Uttarakhand, relief operations are progressing at full pace. Stranded individuals are being airlifted to safer elevations, while those injured are receiving prompt medical attention.
According to the State Disaster Management Authority, rescued people, who were brought to Harsil from Gangotri and surrounding areas, are safe.
The rescued people include pilgrims from across India – 131 from Gujarat, 123 from Maharashtra, 21 from Madhya Pradesh, 12 from Uttar Pradesh, six from Rajasthan, seven from Delhi, five each from Assam and Karnataka, three from Telangana, and one from Punjab.
Currently, 479 personnel from multiple agencies are deployed on the ground. The Rajputana Rifles has mobilised 150 soldiers, including a specialised Ghatak Team. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is operating with 12 members, while the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has deployed 69 personnel.
Additionally, a 50-member medical team, including doctors, is stationed in the area.
The Fire Department has sent nine personnel, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is contributing 130 personnel. The Police Wireless Unit has deployed 15 officers to assist with communication efforts.
Civil administration officials – including members from the police, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Tehsildar, District Magistrate, and Superintendent of Police – are part of a 25-member coordination team. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has also deployed 15 personnel to aid operations.
To further strengthen relief efforts, an additional 819 rescue personnel are expected to arrive soon, as the situation continues to demand extensive on-ground support amid adverse weather conditions.
“As of now, 135 people have been safely evacuated from Harsil, with 100 taken to Uttarkashi and 35 to Dehradun,” read an official statement.
“Thus, a total of 135 people have been successfully relocated to safe destinations, while others remain in Harsil under safe conditions and are being prepared for further travel,” the statement added.
The State Government, District Administration, Disaster Management Department, ITBP, NDRF, and other concerned agencies remain fully engaged and are working in close coordination to ensure the safety and well-being of all those affected by the disaster.
(IANS)