August 6, 2025

In a tragic incident in Uttarkashi district, a devastating flash flood caused by torrential rains has left nine Indian Army personnel missing after a mudslide struck the Kheer Ganga river area. The flood occurred near Dharali village, approximately 4 kilometres from Harsil along the Gangotri highway, wreaking havoc on both the local landscape and the nearby army camp. Officials reported that rescue operations are currently underway, with teams working tirelessly to locate the missing soldiers. Lt Col Manish Shrivastava, the Public Relations Officer for Defence in Dehradun, confirmed that two army personnel who were initially unaccounted for after the disaster have been successfully traced and rescued. In a statement, he emphasized the courageous efforts of the army team, which remains committed to the rescue mission despite challenging circumstances including adverse weather and disrupted communication links. Col Harshvardhan, the commanding officer of the 14th Battalion Rajputana Rifles, is leading approximately 150 personnel in critical rescue operations following the mudslide at Kheer Gad. The situation has been difficult, with collapsed connectivity complicating efforts, yet the army's resolve to protect civilians and assist local residents remains unwavering. Col Shrivastava praised the determination shown by the army personnel in the face of extreme adversity, highlighting their resilience, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to serve the nation. Further support in terms of additional army columns is being mobilized to enhance the ongoing rescue operations. Earlier, Brigadier Mandeep Dhillon, Brigade Commander of the IBEX Brigade, shared updates on the relief efforts, noting that the army unit in Harsil Camp was able to reach the flood site within ten minutes of the incident. Injured individuals are receiving medical treatment as needed. Brigadier Dhillon relayed his concerns over the impact of the mudslide on the Indian Army camp itself, reinforcing the message that, despite the challenges posed by the cloudburst and the damage to parts of their rescue columns, the army remains resolute in its mission to carry out effective rescue operations and lend assistance to the affected local community. With conditions still hazardous, the focus intensifies on ensuring the safety of missing personnel and providing support to those impacted by the floods. This incident highlights the critical role played by the Indian Army in disaster response and the resilience demonstrated by its personnel even in the most trying circumstances. As rescue efforts continue, the nation watches closely, hopeful for the safe return of the missing soldiers and a swift resolution to the ongoing emergency.

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Tags: Indian army, Uttarkashi, Flash flood, Rescue operation,