The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Indian Air Force, SDRF, NDRF, ITBP, BRO, and civil administration, is spearheading extensive rescue and relief operations in flood- and landslide-hit Dharali and Harsil under Operation Dharali.
Dharali remains isolated due to massive landslides, though road clearance has reached Limchigad, where a Bailey Bridge is being launched and is expected to be ready by Friday evening. Clear skies in Matli and Harsil have aided rescue efforts, though low visibility and rain over Dehradun have delayed some air sorties.
According to the Army, 357 civilians have been rescued so far, including 119 airlifted to Dehradun. Ground rescue teams comprise Army columns, combat engineers, medical units, and specialised search-and-rescue dog squads. The NDRF has deployed 105 personnel, working alongside SDRF and ITBP teams. Medical officers are stationed in Harsil and Dharali to provide urgent care.
The rescued include 13 Army personnel, while eight soldiers from the 14 Rajputana Rifles remain missing. Civil authorities report around 100 civilians still unaccounted for, and two deaths have been confirmed.
Aviation assets have been critical to the mission. On August 7 alone, 68 helicopter sorties were conducted—six by the IAF, seven by the Army, and 55 by civil operators. A heli-bridging network now links Dehradun, Harsil, Matli, and Dharasu ALG, with C-295 aircraft transporting supplies, relief teams, and evacuees.
To strengthen coordination, a Communication Control Room with satellite and Wi-Fi connectivity has been set up in Harsil. BSNL and Airtel are working to restore public mobile services in the affected zones.
Senior Army officers, including the General Officer Commanding, Uttar Bharat Area, and the Commander, 9 (Independent) Mountain Brigade, are present on the ground to ensure smooth collaboration between military and civilian agencies.
Planned actions for August 8 include completing the Bailey Bridge at Limchigad, continuing aerial supply drops, intensifying search operations in Harsil and surrounding areas, and evacuating all remaining stranded civilians.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to working around the clock to ensure the safety and well-being of affected citizens, overcoming challenging terrain and unpredictable weather.
