Authorities are relentlessly combing through the rubble of collapsed buildings, using advanced tools and trained dog squads to find missing individuals. Drones conduct aerial surveys of the affected zone, helping identify hard-to-reach spots and accelerating ongoing search efforts.

The incident took place in Dharali, in Uttarkashi district, in northern India's Uttarakhand, on August 9.

Visuals show that after the cloudburst a few days ago that caused a devastating flood situation, resulting in building collapses, the SDRF team of Uttarakhand is seen using dog squads and modern equipment to rescue missing persons from the debris.

Speaking to Newslions, Vinit Vaibhav, SDRF constable, Uttarakhand, stated that in Dharali, Uttarkashi, teams from SDRF Uttarakhand Police are tirelessly combing through the rubble of collapsed structures. Equipped with modern tools and assisted by dog squads, they work to find missing individuals. Drones are also conducting aerial surveys of the affected region, helping pinpoint hard-to-access areas and accelerating the pace of search operations.

A cloudburst is a sudden, intense rainfall over a small region in a brief time, often triggering flash floods. This event occurred when a massive volume of water surged down, causing the Kheerganga river to swell and sending torrents of muddy water rushing through the hilly landscape of Dharali. Roads, buildings, and shops were engulfed by this flood.

Witnesses from a nearby village captured dramatic footage showing muddy waters flooding the streets. Their terrified cries, whistles, and urgent shouts of “run, run” highlighted how quickly the waters surged, leaving little time for escape.

Locals fear many people may be trapped beneath debris caused by the flood. The historic Kalpkedar temple has also been covered by sludge and is believed to have suffered damage.

Debris from the Kheerganga has blocked a section of Bhagirathi river, later known as the sacred Ganges downstream, forming a temporary lake that submerged large areas, including a government helipad. Concerns are rising that without swift drainage, this water could threaten downstream communities.

Army personnel deployed to the area are warning residents to stay clear of floodwaters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, extending sympathies to those affected and assuring that relief and rescue efforts are ongoing with full dedication.