Uttarakhand CM Supervises Rescue at Ground Zero
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is personally directing the ongoing rescue and relief operations in the disaster-affected Dharali area. For the past three days, he has been stationed in Uttarkashi, ensuring that emergency measures are implemented without delay.
On Friday morning, CM Dhami visited the Matli helipad, located near the Uttarkashi district headquarters. He reviewed the arrangements for airlifting stranded residents and gave precise instructions to officials to speed up relief distribution.
Helicopters began operating from the Matli helipad at 7 a.m., as per his directives. These flights carried relief materials into the affected zone and brought evacuees to safety. By midday, 128 people had been transported from Harsil to Matli via airlift.
Relief and Evacuation in Full Swing
Dhami dispatched consignments of essential supplies by helicopter, including food, water, and medical kits. The relief consignments were prioritized for the most vulnerable, including children, the elderly, and the injured.
The Chief Minister also confirmed that mobile services had been restored in Harsil Bagori, providing a critical communication lifeline for residents and relief agencies. “Our focus is on both saving lives and restoring essential services,” Dhami said while addressing officials.
Rescue teams from multiple agencies, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), are working around the clock. They are clearing blocked roads, repairing power lines, and reconnecting water supply networks.
Continuous On-Ground Monitoring
After overseeing the morning operations, CM Dhami left to personally inspect Dharali and nearby affected areas. His visit aims to assess the ground situation, review the progress of rescue teams, and meet residents who have been displaced by the disaster.
Local authorities report that relief camps are operational and stocked with supplies. Medical teams have been deployed to treat injuries and prevent outbreaks of disease. Special attention is being given to children and pregnant women to ensure their safety and well-being.
Officials have also been tasked with compiling a list of missing persons and sharing updates with their families. Search operations remain active, with rescue dogs and advanced equipment being used to locate survivors in inaccessible areas.
Agencies Working at a War Footing
The rescue effort is a coordinated mission involving state authorities, the Indian Army, the Air Force, and local volunteers. Helicopter sorties continue to be the fastest and most effective means of evacuation due to damaged road networks.
CM Dhami reiterated that the government will not rest until every stranded individual is brought to safety and rehabilitation measures are in place. “We are committed to restoring normalcy as quickly as possible,” he stated.
Weather conditions remain challenging, but authorities are taking advantage of clear windows to maximize evacuation efforts. Relief agencies are also preparing contingency plans in case of renewed rainfall or landslides.