Uttarakhand Disaster: CM Dhami Leads Swift Relief Operations in Uttarkashi and Harsil

Following a natural disaster in Uttarakhand, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has mobilised extensive rescue and relief operations, ensuring timely aid and support for affected families. Over 400 individuals have been rescued as efforts continue.

Dehradun, 07 August 2025 — Following reports of extensive damage to life and property in Dharali-Uttarkashi and Harsil due to a sudden natural disaster on 05 August 2025, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami sprang into action, issuing urgent instructions from Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, to initiate rescue and relief operations on a war footing. The district administration, in coordination with the Army, NDRF, SDRF, Police, Fire Department, and ITBP, launched immediate efforts. The Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Home Affairs were promptly informed.

Chief Minister Dhami cancelled his Andhra Pradesh tour and arrived at the State Emergency Operation Center in Dehradun on the evening of 05 August to monitor the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with the CM and assured full central support.

By the evening of 05 August, more than 130 individuals had been rescued. The CM directed officials to ensure adequate food, water, and shelter for those affected. Upon reports of lake formation in Harsil, senior army officers were instructed to take necessary action. MI-17 helicopters from the Indian Air Force were requisitioned for airlifting victims.

Senior Officials Deployed

Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey was appointed as the nodal officer. Former Uttarkashi District Magistrates Dr. Mehrban Singh Bisht, Abhishek Rohilla, and Gaurav Kumar were given key responsibilities. Additional Secretary Vineet Kumar was ordered to camp in Uttarkashi.

Police and Disaster Forces Mobilized

Two IGPs, three SPs, one Commandant, and 11 Deputy SPs, along with 300 police personnel, were dispatched from Dehradun. Additionally, 140 personnel from PAC’s Special Disaster Unit and IRB’s Second Battalion were deployed. 160 police personnel from Dehradun, Haridwar, Pauri, and Tehri also joined the efforts.

₹20 Crore Released for Relief

On the night of 05 August, ₹20 crore was released from the State Disaster Response Fund. A team of departmental secretaries was instructed to reach Dharali-Harsil by 06 August.

PM Modi Assures Support

On 06 August morning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to CM Dhami and assured all possible assistance. Despite adverse weather, the CM reached Dharali, met affected families, and reviewed relief operations. He also interacted with rescue personnel and emphasized timely delivery of aid.

Helicopters and Medical Aid Deployed

Responding to the state’s request, the Centre deployed two Chinook and two MI-17 helicopters from Chandigarh, Sarsawa, and Agra, which arrived at Jolly Grant Airport. Chinooks were tasked with transporting heavy equipment to restore road connectivity. Beds were reserved at Doon Medical College, Coronation Hospital, and AIIMS Rishikesh, and specialist doctors were sent to Uttarkashi.

Relief Camps and Infrastructure Restoration

Relief camps were set up at Inter College Harsil, GMVN, and Jhala. Restoration of electricity and communication networks began. NIM and SDRF started constructing a temporary bridge at Limchagad.

Ground Inspections and Army Rescues

On 06 August, CM Dhami conducted a ground inspection in Uttarkashi and instructed officials to remain on high alert. He met victims in Harsil and assured them of full support. Ten army personnel, including a Lieutenant Colonel, were rescued from Dharali. Two injured soldiers were airlifted, while two others were transported to AIIMS Rishikesh by road.

Overnight Stay and Broader Review

The CM stayed overnight in Uttarkashi and reviewed operations at the District Emergency Operation Center. He instructed airlifting of heavy equipment due to blocked roads and assessed disaster situations in other districts.

Shuttle Helicopter Service Begins

On 07 August, a shuttle helicopter service between Matli and Harsil was launched. Eight UCADA helicopters were deployed to transport affected individuals to the ITBP camp in Matli. CM Dhami met rescued persons and visited those hospitalized in Uttarkashi. Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan reviewed operations from Dehradun.

274 Rescued from Gangotri Region

By 07 August afternoon, 274 people were rescued from Gangotri and nearby areas, including:

By evening, 135 people had been safely sent to their destinations. A 125 kVA generator was airlifted from Dehradun to Harsil to restore electricity.

CM Visits Pauri’s Sainji Region

On 07 August, CM Dhami visited the disaster-hit Sainji area in Pauri district, met affected families, and distributed relief funds. He also conducted an aerial survey of Bankuda in Thalisain Tehsil and other impacted regions.

The Uttarakhand government’s swift response, supported by central agencies, has significantly accelerated rescue and relief operations. CM Dhami continues to lead from the front, ensuring timely aid and rehabilitation for all affected.