23 Dead in Uttarakhand, Himachal Cloudbursts; 800 Pilgrims Rescued

Recent cloudbursts and landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh have led to the tragic loss of 23 lives. Efforts to rescue 800 stranded Kedarnath pilgrims are underway as heavy rainfall continues in the region.

Uttarakhand Cloudbursts and Rescue Efforts

In Uttarakhand, the devastating cloudbursts have claimed 15 lives across Kedarnath, Tehri, Chamoli, Dehradun, and Haridwar districts. Rescue operations have intensified, with a focus on evacuating over 800 pilgrims trapped due to the adverse weather.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed Chinook and MI17 helicopters to facilitate the evacuation. As the weather permits, airlifting operations are set to resume, aiming to rescue all stranded individuals.

Current Situation:

• 7,234 pilgrims have already been rescued from the Kedarnath route.
• The yatra to Kedarnath has been suspended due to ongoing cloudbursts.

Authorities have provided food and water to stranded pilgrims, who are sheltered in relief camps across Kedarnath, Bheembali, and Gaurikund.

Infrastructure Impact:

• Over 300 roads, including a national highway, are blocked.
• 712 houses have been partially damaged, with 146 severely affected and 14 completely destroyed.

Himachal Pradesh Cloudbursts and Government Response

In Himachal Pradesh, cloudbursts have resulted in eight deaths. Flash floods triggered by the cloudbursts have severely affected Nirmand, Sainj, Malana in Kullu, Padhar in Mandi, and Rampur subdivision in Shimla.

Rescue Operations:

• Rescuers are using drones to access cut-off areas due to landslides and debris.
• The IAF has also deployed helicopters to assist in evacuating stranded pilgrims.

Government Relief Measures:

• Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu announced an immediate relief of Rs 50,000 for victims.
• Additional support includes Rs 5,000 monthly rent for three months, along with essential supplies.

Infrastructure Impact:

• 103 houses have been damaged.
• 225 transformers and 111 water supply schemes are affected.
• 115 roads are closed, with 82 bus routes suspended.

Weather Alert: The meteorological office has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning in ten districts until August 6. Authorities have cautioned about potential landslides, flash floods, and damage to crops and infrastructure.

Missing Persons:

• Eight school children from Rampur Samej village are reported missing, including seven girls and one boy.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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