Colonel Harshvardhan Leads Indian Army's Rescue Operation in Uttarakhand Mudslide Disaster
The Indian Army has initiated an extensive rescue and relief operation in the Kheer Gad area near Harshil following a devastating mudslide caused by a cloudburst. This mission, led by Colonel Harshvardhan, the Commanding Officer of the 14 Rajputana Rifles (RAJRIF) battalion, commenced on August 5, 2025. It involves a team of 150 personnel working continuously to locate missing individuals and provide assistance to those affected.
The calamity occurred at approximately 1:45 PM on Tuesday, leading to the disappearance of nine soldiers and significant damage to the area, including severed road links to the holy site of Gangotri Dham. Despite suffering personal losses, the Army personnel are at the forefront of relief operations, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to civilian protection.
To bolster the efforts, additional resources have been deployed, including tracker dogs, surveillance drones, and earthmoving machinery. The Indian Air Force has also joined the operation, utilizing helicopters to supply medical aid and evacuate those stranded as persistent heavy rains continue to raise water levels.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is closely overseeing the situation, coordinating among the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). He described the incident as “deeply painful” and assured that all necessary steps are being taken to support those impacted.
This operation underscores the Indian Armed Forces’ enduring preparedness in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, enhanced by prior exercises such as the Chakravat 2023 in Goa. As Uttarakhand grapples with the disaster's aftermath, the bravery and dedication of the rescue teams continue to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for the nation.
