Uttarkashi flash floods: Army’s tracker dogs, drones to help in search for missing people

The India Army has deployed 150 personnel for the rescue and relief operations in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi where four people were killed and several others went missing following a flash flood.

 

The Army said the team of its rescue personnel is led by Colonel Harshvardhan, Commanding Officer of 14 RAJRIF.

 

"Col Harshvardhan, Commanding Officer of 14 RAJRIF, is personally leading 150 personnel in critical rescue and relief operations since 5 Aug 25 (AN). Inputs from the CO have been received, reassuring the citizens of the Army's continued efforts to rescue all survivors." Central Command of the Indian Army wrote on X.

 

"Additional Army columns, along with Army tracker dogs, drones, logistic drones, earthmoving equipment, etc, have been moved ahead to supplement the resources at Harsil to hasten the efforts," it said.

 

The post further added that the Army and Air Force helicopters are assisting in providing the essential supplies and medicines. The residents have been moved to higher reaches in view of rising water levels due to incessant rains.

 

The cloudburst-triggered flash flood has wreaked havoc in the Harsil area, sweeping away homes, shops and roads. Four deaths have so far been confirmed, while around 130 people have been evacuated to safety.

 

At least 60 people, including 11 soldiers, are said to have gone missing, but reports said the number is likely higher, as many had gathered for the Har Dudh fair in Dharali village when the tragedy struck.

 

According to reports, nearly half of the picturesque Dharali village—the main stopover on the way to Gangotri—was ravaged by the flash flood.

India