Uttarkashi cloudburst: Death toll rises to 5, rescue operation still underway

The Uttarakhand Police said 135 people have been evacuated so far.

The rescue operations are still underway in Dharali Sukhi Top.

Uttarakhand Police said, "Relief and rescue operations are rapidly underway in Harshil, Dharali. Rescue teams have successfully evacuated 135 people from the disaster site to a safe location. Approximately 100 people from near Dharali (towards Gangotri) and 35 people from below the Harshil Army Gate have been safely rescued."

"The District Magistrate of Uttarkashi, Mr. Prashant Arya, and the Superintendent of Police of Uttarkashi, Mrs. Sarita Dobhal, are continuously monitoring and inspecting the disaster-affected areas. Efforts are ongoing to send additional workforce to the disaster-stricken area."

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is monitoring the rescue operations that are underway.

Dhami wrote on X, "In Uttarkashi, instructions were given to officials to remain on 24-hour alert mode after inspecting the rising water levels of the river and the surrounding areas.

"In Dharali, Uttarkashi, all government agencies, departments, and the army are engaged in relief and rescue operations with mutual coordination. Last night, more than 130 people were rescued. Closed routes are being reopened, and all possible assistance is being provided to the affected."

According to reports, the raging waters swept away several houses.

Several videos have now gone viral showing a strong stream of water moving down from the hills and sweeping away several houses in a village.