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Uttarkashi flash floods: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami leads rescue operations as over 150 people are saved; one confirmed fatality reported. Relief efforts continue in the affected region.
Uttarkashi Flash Floods: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Directs Relief Operations Amid Crisis; Over 150 Rescued, One Casualty Reported
Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand – In the wake of sudden flash floods that struck parts of Uttarkashi district, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken charge of the ongoing rescue and relief operations, assuring citizens that all possible efforts are being made to ensure the safety and rehabilitation of those affected.
The devastating floods, triggered by torrential rains on Monday night, inundated several low-lying areas and disrupted road connectivity across the region. The deluge primarily affected villages near the Sainj and Barkot areas, leaving residents trapped in their homes and forcing emergency responders into action.
Over 150 People Rescued Amid Torrential Rains
Swift response from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and volunteers led to the successful rescue of over 150 people stranded due to the rising water levels. Among those rescued were women, children, and elderly residents, many of whom were trapped inside their homes overnight as flash floods swept through their communities.
According to officials, timely alerts and coordinated efforts helped avert a larger tragedy. “We received distress calls from residents throughout the night. Our teams were dispatched immediately to critical areas with boats and safety equipment. Many rescues were carried out under extremely challenging conditions,” said an SDRF officer on the ground.
One Life Lost in the Disaster
Tragically, one fatality has been confirmed. A local man was swept away by the gushing waters near the Bhagirathi River. His body was recovered early Tuesday morning, and the administration has assured that appropriate support will be extended to the family.
Chief Minister Dhami expressed deep condolences for the life lost and promised all necessary help to the bereaved family. “We are doing everything we can to help the affected and ensure no further lives are lost,” he said.
CM Dhami Takes Charge of Relief Operations
CM Dhami has been personally overseeing the relief operations since early Tuesday morning. He conducted an aerial survey of the worst-hit areas and later visited relief camps where displaced families have been housed temporarily.
Addressing the media after his visit, Dhami said, “Our priority is to ensure the safety of all citizens. I have instructed all departments to remain on high alert. Rescue and medical teams have been mobilized. We are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared for any further emergencies.”
The Chief Minister also directed the administration to assess damage to homes, roads, and public infrastructure and expedite compensation processes for the affected families.
Temporary Shelters, Food and Medical Aid Deployed
With several homes damaged or rendered unsafe due to landslides and waterlogging, the district administration has set up multiple temporary shelters to house displaced residents. Relief camps have been equipped with food, drinking water, blankets, and basic medical supplies.
Doctors and health workers have been deployed to monitor the health of evacuees, especially the elderly and children. Teams are also being sent to sanitize flood-affected areas to prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases.
The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) have also been kept on standby in case of further escalation, particularly in remote villages where road connectivity remains severed.
Roads Damaged, Communication Hit
Many roads in and around Uttarkashi have sustained heavy damage, leading to traffic disruptions and isolating certain communities. Several bridges were reported to be submerged or damaged, making it difficult for rescue teams to reach interior locations.
State officials have confirmed that restoration work is already underway. Machinery has been deployed to clear debris and restore connectivity as soon as possible.
Additionally, mobile networks were disrupted in several parts of the district, further complicating rescue coordination. Telecom providers are working with the administration to restore communication lines at the earliest.
Weather Forecast Remains Concerning
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for parts of Uttarakhand, including Uttarkashi, predicting more heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors, avoid riverbanks, and follow official advisories closely.
Authorities have urged tourists to postpone travel plans to hilly regions of Uttarakhand for the time being, as landslides and flash floods remain a risk.
Community Spirit and Volunteerism Shine Through
Even amid the chaos, stories of bravery and compassion have emerged. Local residents, youth groups, and NGOs have joined hands with official rescue teams, offering food, shelter, and manpower to support the relief work.
“This is a time for solidarity. Our people are coming together, helping one another without hesitation,” said a local teacher who was assisting at a relief camp.
As Uttarkashi begins the arduous task of recovery and rebuilding, the state government has assured citizens that support will continue uninterrupted. The incident once again underscores the growing vulnerability of Himalayan regions to extreme weather events, prompting fresh calls for long-term disaster preparedness and climate-resilient infrastructure.
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