14-08-2025 : Governor Reviews Relief, Rescue and Rehabilitation Efforts Following Dharali Disaster.
Rajbhawan, Dehradun, 14 August, 2025
Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd), visited the State Emergency Operations Centre at IT Park, Dehradun, on Thursday to review in detail the relief, rescue, and rehabilitation measures undertaken in response to the disaster that struck Dharali (Uttarkashi) on 5 August.
The Governor commended all forces, officers, and personnel working on the ground, describing their efforts as an exemplary display of collective responsibility and teamwork. He made special mention of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s effective leadership during the crisis, terming it a model example of crisis management. The Governor lauded the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) for coordinating all departments from the State Emergency Operations Centre and closely monitoring the rescue operations. He underlined that, given Uttarakhand’s geographical vulnerability to disasters, it is vital to remain prepared, continuously learn, and update strategies to meet such challenges.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for extending all possible support to the state during this difficult time, the Governor stressed that quick decision-making is essential in disaster response—an approach that ensured timely assistance to affected residents in Dharali. He directed that the relief and rescue operations in this disaster be documented and analysed to create a clear roadmap for the future and further strengthen disaster management capabilities. He also called for regular updates to the USDMA’s Standard Operating Procedures based on field experience and evolving conditions.
The Governor noted that the monsoon is still active, bringing the possibility of further challenges, and urged all concerned agencies to remain on 24×7 alert mode. He observed that more than the incident itself, it is the quality of the response that determines how much loss to life and property can be prevented. He also appreciated the media’s role in providing accurate information to the public, helping prevent rumours and confusion during the relief operations.
During the visit, the Governor interacted virtually with scientists from IIT Roorkee and other expert teams, seeking updates on key operations, including water discharge from the newly formed lake in Harsil, the status and safety of the Dharali–Mukhba bridge, and other critical measures. The teams informed him that surveys are ongoing and a report will soon be submitted to the state government.
Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman briefed the Governor on the background of the incident, the assessment of damages, and the actions taken so far. He reported that over 1,000 personnel from SDRF, NDRF, Army, Police, ITBP, BRO, and other agencies have been engaged in relief and rescue work in Dharali and Harsil. Despite adverse weather and difficult terrain, more than 1,300 pilgrims and local residents were safely evacuated within just five days. A detailed presentation on the ongoing operations was also given.
The meeting was attended by Vice Chairman, State Disaster Management Authority, Vinay Rohilla, Additional CEO (Administration) Anand Swaroop, Additional CEO (Implementation) DIG Rajkumar Negi, and other senior officials.
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