Search Continues for Missing Soldiers After Uttarkashi Cloudburst Disaster

In the aftermath of a devastating cloudburst in Uttarkashi, search operations for nine missing soldiers from an Indian Army camp are ongoing. The soldiers went missing during rescue efforts following a flash flood that swept through the region. The Indian Army has mobilized significant resources for both search and relief operations, successfully airlifting over a thousand stranded individuals. As hope remains for the safe return of the missing personnel, the Army continues to provide essential aid to affected communities, showcasing their commitment to duty and service.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 11, 2025, 14:18 IST

Ongoing Search Efforts in Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi: Following a tragic mudslide that impacted an Indian Army camp in Harsil after a cloudburst in Dharali, the search for nine missing soldiers continues six days later.

The Indian Army has reported that among the missing are one Junior Commissioned Officer and one Non-Commissioned Officer.

According to a statement from the Surya Command on X, "One Junior Commissioned Officer, one Non-Commissioned Officer, and seven soldiers were engaged in Search & Rescue operations for flash flood victims in Dharali on August 5, 2025, when they were caught in a second mudslide and are currently unaccounted for."

This disaster unfolded on August 5, when a cloudburst in Uttarkashi's Dharali led to a flash flood that devastated an entire village, resulting in numerous individuals being reported missing. The incident occurred just 4 kilometers from the Harsil Army camp.

The Indian Army acted swiftly, deploying 150 personnel to the disaster site within ten minutes to commence rescue and relief efforts. Unfortunately, a subsequent mudslide hit the Harsil camp shortly thereafter, engulfing the area and the nine soldiers.

The Army remains hopeful for their safe return, stating, "They ventured to save lives with unwavering courage and commitment to their duty. We pray for their safe return to their families, brothers, and the Nation they serve."

Despite the ongoing search for their personnel, the Army has been actively engaged in relief operations in the affected areas. So far, 1,273 individuals stranded in Dharali have been airlifted to safety.

The Indian Air Force and Army aviation units have utilized Chinook, MI-17, and ALH helicopters for evacuation missions and to deliver vital relief supplies, including food, medical kits, fuel, solar lights, blankets, and hygiene products to remote communities.

By August 8, electricity and telecommunications were restored, with emergency wireless communication systems established in hard-to-reach areas. Efforts to clear roads and construct a Bailey bridge at Limchagad were prioritized to restore essential connectivity.

The Indian Army's Bengal Engineers Group (BEG), along with police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), worked diligently under challenging conditions and heavy rainfall to construct the Bailey bridge.

Search, medical, and communication teams also contributed to the mission, culminating in the completion of the 90-foot Bailey bridge by 5 PM on Sunday.

Constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and Army engineers, the bridge spans the Limchagad on the Gangotri National Highway, connecting Gangnani and Dharali.

With a load capacity of nearly 50 tonnes, this bridge significantly enhances ongoing relief and rescue operations in the challenging Himalayan landscape.