In a significant development for the ongoing rescue efforts in flood-affected Uttarakhand, the Indian Army’s Shatrujeet Brigade has successfully established a 440 km High Frequency (HF) radio link connecting Harsil and Agra. This crucial advancement has restored communication with the isolated Dharali village, enhancing coordination for rescue operations.
Utilizing advanced AN/PRC-160 manpack radios equipped with 4G Automatic Link Establishment, the Army has improved data transmission speeds by up to tenfold compared to older systems. This restored communication link facilitates seamless coordination between ground teams and central command, enabling efficient resource deployment and real-time updates amid the challenging mountainous terrain.
The region has been grappling with the aftermath of a devastating cloudburst on August 6, which prompted severe flash floods and landslides. The disaster has left over 100 individuals missing and has claimed at least five lives. Additionally, more than 40 homes have either been washed away or buried under debris, while access to the Harsil Valley remains severely restricted.
Around 150 personnel from the Rajputana Rifles, supported by Army engineers and standby helicopters from the Indian Air Force, are actively engaged in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions. Concurrently, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working tirelessly to reopen critical routes, including the Uttarkashi–Dharasu–Gangotri and Joshimath–Malari paths, to expedite the delivery of aid.
Authorities have cautioned that the casualty count may rise as rescue teams reach previously inaccessible areas. The innovative use of HF radio technology by the Army has been lauded as a transformative development in this context, ensuring reliable communication despite the challenges posed by mountainous terrain and inconsistent satellite connectivity. This technological advancement serves as an essential lifeline for the affected communities in Uttarakhand.
