Uttarkashi Flood Crisis: 151 Maharashtra Tourists Stranded, 31 Missing

Mumbai: A devastating cloudburst in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, has left 151 tourists from Maharashtra stranded, with 31 still unaccounted for, including 12 from Mumbai’s suburbs, according to officials cited by PTI. The disaster, which struck on Tuesday, triggered flash floods and landslides, causing widespread destruction in the Dharali region and severely disrupting road connectivity.

The Maharashtra government has confirmed that 120 of the stranded tourists are safe and currently sheltered at an Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) camp. Maharashtra Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar has been in direct communication with Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan to coordinate rescue efforts and ensure the safe return of those affected. The missing tourists hail from various regions, including Thane (5), Solapur (4), Ahilyanagar (1), Nashik (4), Malegaon (3), Charkop-Kandivali (6), Mumbai suburbs (6), and Titwala (2).

Rescue operations are underway, involving multiple agencies such as the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), ITBP, and local units. However, damaged infrastructure, including roads and a collapsed bridge, has complicated efforts to reach those still stranded. Helicopters, including Chinook and Mi-17 models, are being utilized to airlift civilians from the affected areas, while buses and foot transport are also being arranged to evacuate tourists from Gangotri to safer locations. The Maharashtra State Emergency Operations Centre is working closely with Uttarakhand’s disaster management authorities and the National Emergency Response Centre to provide timely updates and support to affected families.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has appealed to Uttarakhand officials for urgent assistance, emphasizing the priority of ensuring the safety and well-being of the stranded tourists. The state’s disaster control room remains in constant contact with relevant agencies to facilitate the rescue and evacuation process. Despite challenges posed by ongoing adverse weather, efforts to restore communication and road networks continue, with the Border Roads Organisation actively working to clear debris and repair damaged routes.