Uttarakhand Flash Floods Kill 4, Over 60 Missing, Soldiers Among Missing

A severe cloudburst triggered devastating flash floods and landslides in Dharali village, Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, causing at least four deaths and leaving over 60 people missing, including 11 Indian Army soldiers. The sudden floods destroyed around a dozen hotels, numerous shops, and about 40-50 houses, severely damaging roads, bridges, and cutting off access to the region, which has hampered rescue operations. Rescue teams from the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and local authorities are conducting extensive search and relief efforts, with helicopters on standby to provide aid once weather permits. Approximately 130 people have been evacuated so far, but rough terrain, falling rocks, and swollen rivers continue to pose challenges. Authorities have temporarily halted the Kedarnath Yatra pilgrimage and remain on high alert as water levels in the Alaknanda River rise above danger levels. Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is closely monitoring the situation, expressing gratitude for Prime Minister Modi's support and emphasizing ongoing efforts to restore electricity, communication, and road connectivity.