Race Against Time: SDRF Launches Massive Rescue in Dharali Landslide Disaster, Dozens Evacuated to Safety

A devastating landslide struck Dharali in Uttarkashi district around 2 pm, leaving the area reeling and dozens of lives at risk. In the moments immediately following the incident, the Disaster Control Room in Uttarkashi swiftly alerted the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Acting without delay, three SDRF teams stationed at Bhatwari, Ujeli, and Gangotri were dispatched to the disaster site.

The Gangotri team, including seven brave members, quickly reached Dharali. Displaying remarkable courage and coordination, they managed to rescue around 70-80 stranded locals from various parts of the affected zone, ensuring their safe relocation to Gangotri. Thanks to their efficient effort, all those rescued are currently reported safe.

Meanwhile, the Bhatwari team is stationed at Bhogwa, working tirelessly to create an access route to the disaster-stricken area still covered in thick debris. The search and rescue effort faces a significant challenge: a massive, swampy debris pile, estimated between 50 to 68 feet tall, now reaching up to the second floors of buildings and making conditions extremely dangerous.

In addition to the teams already on the ground, a 40-member support team—including paramedics, a dog squad, and critical equipment like thermal imaging cameras, victim locating cameras, cutting tools, and medical supplies—has been dispatched from the battalion headquarters. Equipped with two satellite phones and drones to aid coordination and victim location, this backup group was set to reach the site by late night or early the next morning.

Teams passing through Chiyasar and Dhalwala have also been mobilized, ensuring that all available manpower is directed to the rescue. Communication has now been successfully established with the affected area via satellite phone, keeping command centers and field units connected for real-time updates.

In total, by tonight or tomorrow morning, nearly 80–85 SDRF personnel will be working at the disaster site, committed to the massive rescue mission. Thanks to their prompt response and coordination, many lives have already been saved, and the war-level efforts to find and secure all victims continue relentlessly.

As Uttarakhand faces this serious crisis, the resolve and efficiency of the rescue teams on the ground offer a glimmer of hope to survivors and worried families.

For further updates on the Uttarkashi landslide and ongoing rescue operations, stay connected and never miss an important alert.