Nine soldiers feared missing after flash floods hit Uttarakhand army camp in Harshil

A cloud burst and resultant massive landslide in Uttarkashi’s Dharali village in Uttarakhand on Tuesday left at least four people dead and 50 others missing, media reports said.

The natural calamity struck Dharali Village around 1.45 pm, which is located  4 km from the Indian Army camp at Harsil.

The road connectivity to  Gangotri Dham, a sacred Hindu destination, was cut off due to the landslide.

"Despite being cut off and the unit base of the unit being adversely affected, and 11 personnel feared missing, the team continues to operate with unwavering determination," read an official update of mudslide relief operations.

"Their grit under extreme adversity reflects the true spirit of the Indian Army,  resilient, selfless and always ready to serve the Nation. In the meantime, additional columns are being moved to be pressed into rescue operations," it said.

Within 10 minutes of the incident, the Army mobilised 150 personnel to the disaster site.

Rescue teams immediately began evacuating trapped villagers and providing critical assistance on the ground.

The rain continued through the afternoon and till evening, hampering rescue efforts.

According to reports, the raging waters swept away several houses.

In a statement, the Army said, "The situation is under continuous monitoring, and the Indian Army remains fully committed to providing all possible assistance to the affected civilians."

Sharing several images of the disaster-hit region, Uttarkashi Police  wrote on X: "On the information of damage in Dharali due to rising water level of Khir Gad in Uttarkashi, Harshil area, disaster teams like Police, SDRF, Army etc. are engaged in relief and rescue work on the spot."

The police advised people to maintain a proper distance from the river.

"Take yourself, children and cattle to a proper distance from the river," the police said.

Meanwhile, Indian Army personnel reached the village and are currently engaged in carrying out the rescue operation.

The Surya Command of the Indian Army wrote on X: "Troops of #Ibexbrigade were immediately mobilised and have reached the affected site to assess the situation and undertake rescue operations. Extent of damage is being ascertained and updates will follow as relief operations unfold."