The Indian Army has ramped up its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations in Dharali, near Harsil, in response to a catastrophic cloudburst that has severely affected the region. Multiple road breaches and the collapse of a critical bridge have left the area isolated, hindering access from both the north and south.
In this ongoing mission, over 225 Army personnel, including specialized infantry and engineering teams, are actively engaged in search, rescue, and relief efforts. Combat engineers are working diligently to clear debris and restore mobility in the affected areas. Notably, seven teams utilizing Reeco Radar are operational near Tekla, while search and rescue dogs have been deployed to Harsil, with additional units en route from Remount and Veterinary Centres.
In a concerted effort to augment the ground operations, air support has been mobilized. The military helipad at Harsil is operational, enabling the coordination of three civil helicopters from Sahastradhara. These helicopters, in collaboration with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), have successfully landed in Bhatwari and Harsil for the evacuation of casualties and delivery of essential relief supplies. Chinook, Mi-17, and ALH helicopters are stationed at Jolly Grant, Chandigarh, and Sarsawa, ready for further troop deployments and material airlifts as soon as clearance is granted.
As of now, 70 civilians have been rescued from the disaster zone. Unfortunately, authorities have confirmed three fatalities, and over 50 individuals are still reported missing. The Army has also noted that nine personnel, including one Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), are unaccounted for, with three casualties having already been evacuated via air.
The disaster has brought immense damage to local infrastructure, with vital roadways near Bhatwari, Linchigad, and Gangrani rendered impassable due to flooding. Additionally, the civil helipad at Dharali has become unusable owing to a significant mudslide.
Despite the challenging terrain and inclement weather conditions, the Indian Army has committed to providing ongoing support to the local administration, ensuring that rescue and relief operations continue unabated.
