12 years ago
All stranded officials at Kedarnath evacuatedAll officials and workers stranded at the Kedarnath shrine in flood-ravaged Uttarakhand, were airlifted this morning, as rescue efforts resumed today after days of incessant rain. The officials, over 70 in number, are said to be in good health.
It all happened in one night How long does it take to cover 110km? If it's the national highway, maybe two hours. So what if the national highway got washed away in huge chunks, or caved in after landslides?
Ganga rising, heavy rain in Uttarkhand as locals struggle to surviveGarhwal and Kumaon area witnessed heavy downpour this morning and officials have been asked to monitor the situation closely.
Ajay Pradyot, Secretary, Uttarakhand government, counters this claim. He says:
- Our estimates more or less remain the same
- It is a very scientific procedure that we are following
- Four plans that we are following and we are arriving at a figure of around 3000 (missing)
- These are the figures that we have received from the districts, based on FIRs, websites and complaints of those people who have come to us
- Still trying to collate the info so can't commit the figure but definitely it's going to be around 3000
- I expect that in next 3-4 days, some info will start pouring in from Rudraprayag, of the locals who have been affected
- What could change these figures is the number of locals who have not registered with us
- I do not know from where they have got this 11,000 figure
- But we are sticking to our figures
Uttarakhand: 1,350 evacuated from Badrinath, UN says over 11,000 missingA total of 1,350 people have been evacuated from Badrinath while over 3,500 remain untraced in flood-hit Uttarakhand even as a United Nations (UN) agency estimated that the number of missing could be over 11,000.
Ajay Maken, head of the Communications Department for the Congress, says: 
Thank the defence forces for their bravery. This is biggest evacuation operation. Jawans have risked their lives to save lakhs of people
We are satisfied with the way the Uttarakhand government is functioning
In such a situation people should rise above politics
Instead of criticizing the government, they should help
Thank the defence forces for their bravery. This is biggest evacuation operation. Jawans have risked their lives to save lakhs of people
We are satisfied with the way the Uttarakhand government is functioning
In such a situation people should rise above politics
Instead of criticizing the government, they should help
Uttarakhand: Figure of 10,000 deaths is incorrect, says Chief Minister Vijay BahugunaUttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna has dubbed as "inaccurate" the state Assembly Speaker's claim that more than 10,000 people may have died in the flash floods and landslides that were triggered by torrential rain in the state two weeks ago.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna tells NDTV:
- Figure of 10,000 deaths in Uttarakhand incorrect
- Details on casualties will be declared truthfully
- Archaeological Survey of India team will soon survey Kedarnath
- Tourism is Uttarakhand's lifeline, will be restored
More than 900 have dead in Uttarakhand floods: Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde
Interim report says loss of Rs 700-800 crore in the floods: Uttarakhand Chief Secretary
Interim report says loss of Rs 700-800 crore in the floods: Uttarakhand Chief Secretary
Harsil fully evacuated, Air Force flew out last 12 pilgrims
Air Force has airlifted a total of 842 pilgrims from Badrinath
Air Force has airlifted a total of 842 pilgrims from Badrinath
Partial de-induction of Air Force choppers to begin from July 2
Adequate strength will remain for rehabilitation work
Adequate strength will remain for rehabilitation work
Air Force choppers have airlifted 590 pilgrims from Badrinath today
Uttarakhand: death toll could cross 10,000, says Assembly SpeakerGovind Singh Kunjwal has said that he fears that more than 10,000 people may have died in the flash floods and landslides that have ravaged the state since June 16. Officially, the death toll is nearly 1000 so far.
Kedarnath shrine damage to be assessed by expertsA team of experts from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will visit the Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand to assess the quantum of damage caused by the recent floods and landslides.
The body of Darrell Castellino, who was the commander of the ill-fated Mi-17 helicopter that crashed in Gaurikund on Tuesday, was brought to Mumbai by a special Air Force flight this morning. Hi body will be kept at Nanavati Hospital tonight. Funeral will be held at a church in Vakola in the afternoon tomorrow.
Reports of rain in Rudrapyag and Kedarnath.
Uttarakhand: Over 1000 people still awaiting rescue in Badrinath, 1800 reported missingOver one lakh people have been rescued in the last 14 days since floods and torrential rains ravaged Uttarakhand. But more than 1000 people still remain stranded in the holy town of Badrinath. Another 1800 are reported missing.
Army veterinary personnel attending to animals in flood affected areas:
NDMA vice-chairman Shashidhar Reddy:
- 1636 villages have been connected so far; 739 villages yet to be connected. BRO told to at least provide mule tracks
- Home Minister has asked IAF to keep choppers to supply essential commodities to remote areas
- Debris at Kedarnath needs to be removed
- As of now there are no reports of epidemic. Health Ministry has kept 50 doctors on standby
- 50 satellite phones have been distributed, communications restored to most places
Guard of Honour for 20 bravehearts who died in the chopper crashTwenty bravehearts, who died in Tuesday's chopper crash while rescuing stranded people in flood-ravaged areas of Uttarakhand, were given a 'guard of honour' - a ceremonial mark of respect - by the government today in Dehradun.
Chopper crash lands in Harsil, no casualties
A Pawan Hans helicopter crash landed today in Uttarakhand's Harsil town while trying to take off amid heavy rains.
A Pawan Hans helicopter crash landed today in Uttarakhand's Harsil town while trying to take off amid heavy rains.
Guard of Honour for 20 bravehearts who died in chopper crashTwenty bravehearts, who died in Tuesday's chopper crash while rescuing stranded people in Uttarakhand, are being given a 'guard of honour' - a ceremonial mark of respect - by the government in Dehradun.
The bodies of those who died in the helicopter crash in Uttarakhand on Tueday will be brought to Delhi today from Dehradun. They will be given full military honours and will then be flown to their respective destinations.
Five of the victims are from Barrackpore in West Bengal
Five of the victims are from Barrackpore in West Bengal
Army Chief General Bikram Singh arrives in Dehradun
Uttarakhand: A three-year-old rescued but has nowhere to goWhile some families grieve the loss of their loved ones in the massive flash floods, it's a long and agonising wait for several others.
Dehradun airport's wall plastered with hundreds of photographs of missingJust outside the back gate of the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, the anxiety for missing pilgrims caught in the Uttarakhand flash floods is now turning to anger. Read story here
Uttarakhand: Army Commander walks with 500 people out of BadrinathBad weather made it tough for helicopters to ferry the hundreds of people who remain stranded at Badrinath, now the focal point of rescue operations in flood-ravaged Uttarakhand.
Vice-Chairman of India's National Disaster Management Authority, M Shashidhar Reddy:
- Uttarakhand government has started distribution of relief
- Medical teams doing DNA sampling exercise at Kedarnath
- Stranded tourists have been allowed free access to state tourist homes
- Special bogies are also being arranged
- Locals to get compensation through the DMs
- Most road links established
- Road links yet to be established between Joshimath and Badrinath, Uttarkashi and Gangotri, and Rudraprayag and Gaurikund
- 9 NDRF personnel, 6 Indo Tibetan Border Police, and 5 from Indian Air Force will be given guard of honour tomorrow in Dehradun
Air Force evacuations update:
Operations in Harsil to continue as locals will be evacuated
500 rescued today in 40 sorties
100 pilgrims remaining
1000 more, including locals, need to be evacuated
Badrinath: 390 people evacuated; 2,000, mostly elderly, still awaiting rescue. 15 sorties undertaken today
Rescue at both places stopped for today due to bad weather
Operations in Harsil to continue as locals will be evacuated
500 rescued today in 40 sorties
100 pilgrims remaining
1000 more, including locals, need to be evacuated
Badrinath: 390 people evacuated; 2,000, mostly elderly, still awaiting rescue. 15 sorties undertaken today
Rescue at both places stopped for today due to bad weather
Uttarakhand: Proud that he lost his life for the country, says martyr's familyShops around Chandni Chowk's famous Paranthewali Gali in Delhi were closed on Wednesday. The area was paying respect to Flight Lieutenant Tapan Kapoor of the Indian Air Force who died in Tuesday's chopper crash.
Uttarakhand: at least 4,000 still awaiting rescue, most stranded in BadrinathEleven days after flash floods and landslides hit Uttarakhand, at least 4,000 people, most of them pilgrims, are still waiting to be evacuated from the Himalayan state. Most of them are stranded in Badrinath.
Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde will visit Dehradun to pay tribute to soldiers who died in the helicopter crash on Tuesday. He is likely to leave - weather permitting - after 12.30 pm and come back by 4 pm.
Air Force evacuations update:
- 1,341 people taken out on Wednesday
- 350-odd people recused from Badrinath, rest from Harsil
- Total evacuations by air force so far stands at 13,500
Mass cremation of bodies begins in KedarnathWith the weather clearing a bit and a threat of epidemic looming large, mass cremation of bodies has begun in Kedarnath, the epicenter of destruction in flash floods that struck Uttarakhand nearly two weeks ago.
- Air rescue operations have resumed in Dharasu-Harsil and Gauchar-Kedarnath sectors
- Air Force is waiting for the weather to clear in Badrinath sector
RK Sharma, Air Marshal, spoke to the press at Barrackpore airport in Bengal on the chopper crash. The chopper and five jawans on board were from Barrackpore.
Here are the highlights:
Here are the highlights:
- Air Force has a well-planned mission on this disaster management. Standard operating procedures are in place
- We will not stop until the last person is out
- We will deal with the issue of bodies once we have spoken to the next of kin
- On the brave heroes who lost their lives: they are heroes beyond the extent that their commitment shows. We have our ways and means of honouring people.
- We are doing what you want us to do- that's good enough for us. Other awards and honours will come with time.
- Please don't bring any political skewedness into this operation by calling it a thankless job
- I do not know the exact reason of the cause of crash
- Reasons will be known after the enquiry completes
Uttarakhand: Congress, TDP fight at airport to stake claim to survivorsIn a bizarre gesture of staking claim, both parties wanted to fly home the survivors, who are from Andhra Pradesh. (Video Courtesy: NTV)
From National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) presser:
- A counsellor has been sent to Badrinath today
- NDMA in touch with health department and state government for extending help to locals too
- 10 feet of debris and slush in the Badrinath area. Many feared dead here
- State government wants to finish all cremation work by June 28
Chopper crash site:
- Nearest helipad is 10 km away from chopper crash site
- Bodies have been located but have not been brought up
- The chopper went down after hitting a cliff
- Bodies will be brought to Dehradun by tomorrow. All bodies have been identified.
Uttarakhand chopper crash: 17 bodies have been recovered so far. Air Chief NAK Browne, who is in Uttarakhand today, had said earlier in the day that all 20 people on board the Mi-17 helicopter that crashed near Gaurikund yesterday are dead.
JUST IN:
Uttarakhand Tourism Minister announces Rs 100 crore restoration package for affected tourist facilities.
Uttarakhand Tourism Minister announces Rs 100 crore restoration package for affected tourist facilities.
Amit Prasad, Deputy Inspector General, ITBP, and Inder Negi, Inspector General, ITBP on yesterday's chopper crash:
- Paracommandos moved into the area, in Gaurikund, on foot and are searching for the bodies.
- We have our personnel.
- Morale is high. Certain legal formalities which will have to be done.
- Thank you for communicating to the country all that we are doing.
Air Chief speaks at the Gauchar airbase:
- The accident took place last afternoon, close to Gaurikund
- There were three helicopters. One was following the other, and was 10 minutes behind
- When this happened by evening we managed to slither down
- They have reported that there no survivors
- There were 20 people on board, five of them were cremembers, five were from the NDRF and six from ITBP
- I wont say anything was pushed
- Our men highly trained and motivated
- Morale of the force is extremely high. I'm extremely happy with the way they are performing
- We have to finish the mission and finish it right, for their sake
- We'll make sure that the job will be done
- From tomorrow hoping to see improved weather; the tempo will also pick up
- We have some wok to be done in Harsil
Uttarakhand: Air Chief NAK Browne's helicopter arrives in Gauchar
5000 people still stranded, rescue ops to focus on Badrinath and HarsilIt is bright and sunny in Rudraprayag, near Badrinath, but it is raining heavily in Pauri district. Fresh landslides have been reported in Pauri and a few houses and vehicles have been damaged. A road approaching the Paithani and Mulund areas has been washed away.
Our rotors will not stop turning: Air Force chief in DehradunThe Indian Air Force has begun its sorties from Gauchar, which is the hub of relief and rescue operations, on schedule this morning. Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne is in Uttarakhand today to boost the morale of his men who are engaged in their largest-ever rescue mission.
You are our guiding beacon: Air Force tribute to officers who died in UttarakhandOn Tuesday, on its third rescue sortie of the day, the Russian-made Mi-17 V5 helicopter that Wing Commander Castelino was commanding crashed in treacherous terrain while returning from Kedarnath. All 20 people on board are feared dead; 12 bodies have been recovered so far.
Uttarakhand chopper crash: all 20 on board feared dead, 12 bodies foundOn the morning after a tragic helicopter crash in which all 20 people on board are feared dead, most of them military heroes who worked tirelessly to save lives in flood-ravaged Uttarakhand, the Indian Air Force's rescue operations are continuing without pause.
Air Chief NAK Browne reaches Dehradun on morale boosting mission. "The NDRF and ITBP personnel as well as our men have done an outstanding job. About this chopper crash, I express condolence in behalf of the entire nation. It is a serious loss, but our operations are going to continue. Most of the job is done but we still have to take people out from Badrinath and Harsil sectors. Hopefully, in a few days, if weather is good, we should be done. I met the boys today and told them that rotors will not stop turning. We owe it to those who lost their lives in this rescue operation," he said.
Heavy rains at Thalisenrh in Pauri district in Uttarakhand. Land-slides after rain have affected dozens of houses. A few vehicles have also come under the landslide. Most damage has been reported from Paithani and Mulund areas. Road approaching to these areas have also been washed away
Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne likely to visit Dehradun and Gauchar
The accident during relief operations has come as a huge shock to me. My heart goes out to the families of those who have lost their lives.
- Dr Manmohan Singh (@PMOIndia) June 25, 2013
PM: The nation mourns with me the loss of our heroes whose selfless work has saved thousands of lives.
- Dr Manmohan Singh (@PMOIndia) June 25, 2013
PM: "Continuing their good work would be the best homage and tribute to these martyrs."
- Dr Manmohan Singh (@PMOIndia) June 25, 2013
19 people were on board the MI-17 chopper that crashed in Uttarakhand, National Disaster Management Authority said. Air Force says eight bodies have been found.
Department of Telecommunications (DoT):
To get the location details of your loved ones stranded in Uttarakhand natural calamity, please contact our helpline nos: 9818003057, 9958976317.
To get the location details of your loved ones stranded in Uttarakhand natural calamity, please contact our helpline nos: 9818003057, 9958976317.
Uttarakhand: Air Force helicopter crashes; eight dead
The Mi-17 helicopter was returning from Kedarnath. Three civilians among those killed.
The Mi-17 helicopter was returning from Kedarnath. Three civilians among those killed.
Air Force deploys specially-trained Garud commandos for rescue operationsAs weather improved in Uttarakhand this morning, the Air Force helicopters are evacuating over 6,000 people who are stranded in different parts of the state, most of them near the holy town of Badrinath.
Blog: 24 hours at the army camp at Harsil in Uttarakhand NDTV's Tanima Biswas reports form Harsil army relief camp in flood-ravaged Uttarakhand, where over 1000 people are still stranded.
Uttarakhand Chief Secretary: Two MI-17 helicopters are at the disposal of the Commissioner. People are stranded at Harsil and Badrinath.
Rahul Gandhi visits Kedarnath after a delay this morning because of bad weather.
Rahul is in Uttarakhand as a citizen not 'Rambo', says CongressCongress vice president Rahul Gandhi had to abandon his plans to go visit Badrinath and Kedarnath in Uttarakhand today after bad weather made it impossible for helicopters to fly.
JUST IN:
Helicopter operations resume as weather improves
Helicopter operations resume as weather improves
6,000 people remain stranded in different parts of Uttarakhand, most of them near the holy town of Badrinath. Heavy rain since Monday evening is making it impossible for helicopters to reach stranded pilgrims, though many of them are now in temporary relief camps with access to food and water.
Here are the 10 latest developments in the story:
Here are the 10 latest developments in the story:
- Rescue efforts are now focused on Badrinath and Harsil, which is nearly 400 kms away. 1200 people who are at Harsil are waiting to be air-lifted.
- The first batch of yatris or pilgrims who were stuck near Badrinath have just been rescued. They were escorted through a ropeway and makeshift bridge by soldiers.
- The national highway that connects Badrinath to Delhi is blocked in several parts because of fresh landslides. So thousands of pilgrims are waiting to move out of the region.
- The search and rescue operation in Kedarnath, the epicentre of the disaster, has concluded, said officials today. "No survivors remain in the jungles around Kedarnath. They have all been brought out," said Ravinath Raman, an officer involved with the rescue operation.
- Congress vice-President Rahul Gandhi spent the night at a base camp in Gauchar last night. He arrived in Uttarakhand on Monday as Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde warned that visits by VVIPs impede rescue operations, and that political leaders will not be given landing rights.
- Near the Kedarnath temple, preparations are being made for a mass cremation to ensure that rotting bodies do not lead to an outbreak of diseases. Huge quantities of firewood and ghee, needed for the cremation, are to be air-lifted once the weather clears. Local priests will supervise the last rites.
- Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna has said that he expects the death toll to reach 1,000 after rescuers access the remotest areas which have been cut off by floods.
- The Supreme Court today ordered the government to scale up the relief and rescue operations. The court is hearing a Public Interest Litigation or PIL on the national disaster.
- Yesterday about 800 people were evacuated on foot using makeshift bridges across swollen rivers, an Army spokesman said. About 1000 people were also air-lifted from parts where the rain was not heavy enough to ground military helicopters.
- Unmannd Aerial Vehicles or UAVs are being used to scan thick forest areas to help locate any people who are stranded.
Government releases fact sheet on Uttarakhand rescue and relief operations:
Despite bad weather which partially affected the air evacuation operations, the Army, ITBP, NDRF and BRO continued to press ahead with the relief and rescue activities.
Army:
The Army evacuated 1375 persons today of which 368 were from Harsil and rest from Badrinath.
Tracks have been created from Harsil to Uttar Kashi to enable persons who are physically fit to walk down to Uttar Kashi and then proceed on vehicles.
IAF:
IAF did 115 sorties from Dharasu and 20 from Shimla to evacuate 1095 persons from Harsil. However, due to bad weather the operations were severely affected.
ITBP:
The supplies of ATF, LPG and other commodities are comfortable to meet the requirements of the IAF as well as of the local population.
Telecommunications:
Railways:
Railways is running a train from Haridwar to Delhi at 2200 hrs. today.
Despite bad weather which partially affected the air evacuation operations, the Army, ITBP, NDRF and BRO continued to press ahead with the relief and rescue activities.
Army:
The Army evacuated 1375 persons today of which 368 were from Harsil and rest from Badrinath.
Tracks have been created from Harsil to Uttar Kashi to enable persons who are physically fit to walk down to Uttar Kashi and then proceed on vehicles.
IAF:
IAF did 115 sorties from Dharasu and 20 from Shimla to evacuate 1095 persons from Harsil. However, due to bad weather the operations were severely affected.
ITBP:
- The ITBP evacuated 450 persons from Badrinath and 267 from Gangotri Maneri area.
- The ITBP combed the Bhairon Chetti area and ensured that there are no survivors there.
- The NDRF rescued 120 persons today from Harsil. Dead bodies recovered in Kedarnath area were handed over to the local police.
- NDRF also confirmed that there are no survivors left in Kedarnath, Bhairon Chetti area.
- The BRO continued its operations to clear the passages between Tilwara and Rudra Prayag.
- The access between Gupt Kashi to Tehri was also cleared.
The supplies of ATF, LPG and other commodities are comfortable to meet the requirements of the IAF as well as of the local population.
Telecommunications:
- The BSNL has restored all its towers except four which are in Kedarnath, Dharchula, Augustya Muni and Narayan Bagar.
- Out of 72 telephone exchanges that were down 44 have been restored.
- 75 satellite phones are in use. Another 25 are being imported from Hong Kong for use by the agencies involved in rescue work.
- BSNL helpline numbers have received number of calls seeking information on location of missing persons.
- The private telecom operators have also set up similar helplines.
Railways:
Railways is running a train from Haridwar to Delhi at 2200 hrs. today.
To find out last active location of BSNL mobiles of missing persons in Uttarakhand, call BSNL toll-free numbers 1503, 09412024365.
Despite inclement weather conditions, Army's relentless efforts to provide succor, rescue and relief will continue 24x7. #Floodrelief
- ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) June 24, 2013
Approx1400 people are awaiting evacuation at Harsil, 50 at Dharali & 60 at Jhala on Uttarkashi axis & approx 5000 at Badrinath #Floodrelief
- ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) June 24, 2013
Uttarakhand govt won't allow any state govt rescue work; individual efforts of state governments hampering rescue work: Sources
The Air Force says air rescue efforts are underway wherever possible. It said it wants this message sent to those stranded and their families, "Our helicopter rotors will not stop churning till such time as we get each one of you out. Hang in there, don't lose hope."
Heavy rain near Pauri; main road link near Rudraprayag blocked by landslides
Sitaram Yechury says:
- Dimension of the tragedy is that we expect lot more
- We are the first one to collect fund for the people affected in the flood
- It is better that first of all the fund should be reached materially and monetarily
- Publicity seeking in this kind of incident is very unfortunate
- I would just like to say that do not visit the place just for the sake of publicity but to help monetarily and materially
Uttarakhand: Rain and landslides hits rescue operations, thousands still stranded
Nearly 15,000 people remain stranded in Uttarakhand; the return of bad weather is impeding rescue operations. Helicopters have not been able to fly this morning, and landslides late on Sunday night have blocked major routes that were being used to evacuate people by foot.
Nearly 15,000 people remain stranded in Uttarakhand; the return of bad weather is impeding rescue operations. Helicopters have not been able to fly this morning, and landslides late on Sunday night have blocked major routes that were being used to evacuate people by foot.
There have been two major landslides reported near Rudraprayag which have blocked a main road that is being used to carry relief supplies. Bulldozers have been deployed to clear the road.
Two major landslides reported between Srinagar and Rudraprayag
Sheila Dikshit on relief work in Uttarakhand
Ambika Soni
Oscar Fernandes
- Regularly aides are being sent
- Things like clothes, candles, biscuits, medicines and blankets are being sent
Ambika Soni
- Everyone has given 10 lakh from their MP fund
- It isn't just one day affair
- Congress Government wants that everyone who has been trapped should get compensation
- Whenever a big problems like this comes, state Government contact central Government and asks for aid; which was provided
- People whose houses and shops got drowned will get compensation from chief minister's fund
Oscar Fernandes
- Food items and clothes have been provided
- Rahul ji mobilizes everything
- He leads everything
- He only brought this process to momentum
After Modi's 'rescue' act, Sonia flags off relief missionNarendra Modi's visit to the flood-ravaged hill state and alleged evacuation of 15,000 Gujaratis on the weekend has sparked a slanging match between his BJP and the Congress.
Uttarakhand: 'Timely police action saved nearly 8,000 lives'After a warning of heavy showers was issued, the police in Kedarnath and nearby areas swung into action, advising tourists and pilgrims to refrain from undertaking the Char Dham Yatra, Rudraprayag Superintendent of Police, Birenderjeet Singh told NDTV.
Uttarakhand: hotels destroyed, tourism hit badlyUttarakhand Chief Minister and other officials have admitted it may take years for Uttarakhand to get back to where it was before. While rescue and relief is the focus, we find locals hit by a double whammy and few options.
Uttarakhand survivors recount flood ordealRescued tourists returning from Uttarakhand are still in shock and quite traumatised. Some of them recalled how they escaped death.
'Operation Rahat' update:
- Cheetah and Mi-17 V-5 helicopters of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will be pressed into service today in Badrinath valley again. Weather outlook is marginal.
- On Sunday, a Cheetah from the Hindon Air Force Station pulled out 80 survivors from a location in Badrinath valley. The survivors were dropped to a safe place nearby. But the chopper was carrying just two passengers at a time, leading to more than 50 landings in one sortie.
Incessant rain in Gauchar in Chamoli district... Air Force has suspended air rescue operations in the area for the time being... situation will be reviewed in afternoon
Minor landslides too have happened in Gauchar
Uttarakhand: Heavy rain likely today, 10,000 still strandedThe Army and the paramilitary rescuers have picked up the already frenzied pace of their operations, which have entered the fifth day today.
Uttarakhand: Sonia to flag off relief mission after Modi's 'rescue' actA game of political one-upmanship seems to be on over reaching out to survivors of the massive deluge in Uttarakhand. 680 people are reported to have died while 10,000 are still stranded across the state.
Nearly 8,000 people are stranded in Badrinath; 1,000 are stuck in Pithoragarh and around a 100 people are still at Hemkund Sahib.
There were light rains in Uttarkashi last night. It is not raining right now, but there are overcast conditions. The Meteorological Department says weather will remain crucial over the next four days. "There's a lot of cloud cover in the Kumaon region. We expect the clouds to spread to the Garhwal region as well... The southern region is likely to see heavy rainfall," said BP Yadav, Director, Meteorological Department.
Two Air Force choppers took off for rescue operations in Harsil this morning. Nearly 1,700 people are still said to be trapped there.
At least 5000 may have been killed, says Uttarakhand ministerKedarnath Valley, the temple town which was the epicenter of the floods and landslides, was also cleared of all stranded pilgrims in stepped up rescue operations amid intermittent rains.
Uttarakhand: Search for survivors in race against timeWith heavy rains predicted from Monday, the weather remains a huge concern for the rescue forces.
12 foreigners evacuated from Kinnaur in HimachalTwelve foreigners were among the 150 airlifted on Sunday by the Air Force helicopters from various places in rain-ravaged Kinnaur district while National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team rescued 50 tourists.
BSNL opens helpline to find last cellphone location of those strandedState-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited or BSNL has opened helpline numbers - 1503 and 09412024365 - to enable people find out the last mobile phone location of their relatives and friends stranded in flood-hit Uttarakand.
Flood-ravaged Uttarakhand to get $150,000 US aidAid of $150,000 (around Rs 90 lakh) would be given for relief work in the flood-ravaged state of Uttarakhand, US Ambassador to India Nancy J Powell said on Sunday.
Watch pilgrims try to rush out of the way of bouldersStuck in the mountains for days without food and water, pilgrims walk down a steep and crooked mountain path with boulders falling down from all sides. Despite rescue teams asking them to wait from below, these pilgrims are just too desperate to stop.
Army evacuates all stranded pilgrims in Yamunotri
Uttarakhand: Army evacuates all stranded at Jungle Chatti. Search operations in progress
Air Force says:
- 13 sorties flown from Dharasu for Maneri and Harsil
- There are many people in Maneri and are being evacuated by six MLH
- Full-fledged rescue operations from Gauchar are underway
- Two Mi-17s airborne for Badrinath
- Rescue operations have also started in Pithoragarh and Rampur
- Army helicopters have commenced flying operations from Jungle Chatti and Govind Ghat
- Air Force has flown 22 sorties for Harsil and Maneri and evacuated 204 till noon
- Helicopters are airborne for Kedarnath and Badrinath
Uttarakhand: 80,000 people have been evacuated till now; five helicopters on rescue mission from Badrinath
Ajay Chadha, Director General of Indo-Tibetan Border Police, says:
- Our priority is Kedarnath access
- In Badrinath people are in better condition, staying in hotels
- NDRF and ITBP teams have been working continuously since June 18
- Satellite phones have been arranged by Ministry of Home Affairs
- Jungle Chatti - a helipad has been set up. It is a critical area
- There is no other way out if the weather conditions don't get better
- Harshil is an Army Cant where all the people are staying
- We are not facing any coordination problems
- We are utilising Air Force choppers only, do not have choppers of our own
Six sorties to Harsil undertaken this morning. 106 evacuated; operations continuing.
- It is still raining in some areas of Kedarnath; clouds are too low. No flying ops taking place
- Army has reached 15 km short of Hanuman Chatti. 700 stranded at Hanuman Chatti and Yamunotri
- 2,000 people awaiting evacuation at the Gangotri-Harsil axis
- 390 air evacuated from Kedarnath area, 500 others awaiting
- Badrinath foot movement possible. Two Army medical teams inducted in Gaurikund and Gaucher
- All children from Pindari Glacier have been evacuated
Helicopter rescue operations in Harsil resume
1,200 tourists still stranded in Himachal Pradesh, survivors complain of govt apathyAround 1,200 tourists still remain stranded in Himachal Pradesh after last week's floods ravaged parts of the state and neighbouring Uttarakhand. 1,200 people have been rescued from Himachal's Kinnaur district so far; 20 people have died due to floods across the state.
Helicopter operations suspended due to bad weather; 22,000 still stranded
Rescuers are racing against time to evacuate nearly 22,000 people who are still stranded across Uttarakhand that saw a massive deluge, triggered by torrential rains last week. 557 deaths have been reported so far, and the toll is expected to rise further.
Rescuers are racing against time to evacuate nearly 22,000 people who are still stranded across Uttarakhand that saw a massive deluge, triggered by torrential rains last week. 557 deaths have been reported so far, and the toll is expected to rise further.
Big and unusual role for the Air Force's C-130JIn a very innovative, yet daring move, the Air Force today virtually established an aviation fuel supply bridge at Dharasu in Uttarkashi to give greater impetus to rescue operations that have been severely restricted due to non-availability of aviation fuel in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand: Number of people killed in floods may be 1,000, says Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna has said that the death toll in the devastating floods in the state may go up to 1,000 - double the number he had announced earlier in the day. At least 550 people have been reported to have died so far. While over 70,000 people have been rescued, 32,000 continue to remain stranded across the state.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna has said that the death toll in the devastating floods in the state may go up to 1,000 - double the number he had announced earlier in the day. At least 550 people have been reported to have died so far. While over 70,000 people have been rescued, 32,000 continue to remain stranded across the state.
National Disaster Response Force briefs:
As for Kedarnath
- We are in one of the most difficult axis
- 10 teams are working
- So far 120 victims have been evacuated
- One dead body has been recovered
- In jungle Chet, helipad made but it is not operational
- 170 have been evacuated by road, 300 by air
- More evacuated through rest of the day
As for Kedarnath
- 153 have been rescued
- 149 sadhus don't want to be evacuated
- Police presence seen in the areas
- Recognising bodies easier
- 740 people have been rescued today
- In Ramwada, one person has died, his son has been evacuated
- Tomorrow we will carry on rescue operations in Ramwada, Kedarnath, Badrinath and Jungle Chet
Briefing by Border Roads organisation:
- Roads from Rishikesh to Joshimath opened
- Roads from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi opened, so that vehicles can move
- We are working on both Badrinath, Kedarnath axis
- We are moving by road
- We have put in 90 major equipment
Indo-Tibetan Border Police briefing:
- 4,000 saved today
- Going to hotels and making sure people are safe in Badrinath
- Ropeway established. Our people can use but not public
- Rescue can start from tomorrow through the means of ropeway probably
- Some yatris are stuck in villages. They are being brought to Uttarkashi
- We want to make sure all border villages are safe
- Some people are stuck in Spiti valley
- Seven Israelis not well. They are safe, checked-in hotel. They can go to Kazaa tomorrow
- When Kailash Mansarovar yatra is on, many people go there. They are all safe
Air Marshall briefs about the rescue operations:
- Weather wasn't as good, so didn't waste sorties
- Knew right time to go
- An air bridge to Dharasu has been added
- There is no road connectivity
- C130 full of fuel sent
- Dharasu air base helping out with rescue operations
- Nine helicopters operating in Gaucher. 2,000 people have been saved
- More than 300 sorties
- C-130s saved injured
- Medical team going to Dharasu tomorrow
- Will be able to clear Gaucher tomorrow with Army
- In Pithoragarh, two-three people saved
- Totally 900 sorties, 6,000 saved
General Bhatia from the Army briefs on rescue operations:
- Operations going on well-coordinated
- Focusing on difficult areas
- Critical areas are Jungle Chetti and Kedarnath
- Made foot-track, 110 out using foot-track
- Helicopters and explosives used
- All people will be evacuated from Jungle Chetti tomorrow
- Gageria been evacuated completely
- 62 trekkers in Pindari glacier evacuated
- In Harshil, two pilgrims were left. Vehicles sent to get them out
- Mountain institute helping people
- In Badrinath, people are safe
- In Janki Chatti by Gangotri, we will reach people there
- We made a Burma bridge today
- We will take the stragglers on foot and put additional special forces
- We want to send doctors and engineers
Congress's Manish Tewari briefs on Uttarakhand rescue efforts
Status report from government of Uttarakhand
- We assessed the situation first hand
- Have officers from various agencies. All agencies are working in coordinated manner
- I have seen some reports where I saw there was no coordination
- So I want to emphasize coordination
- Today 10,000 people have been evacuated. A total of 70,000 people have been evacuated so far
- Had a crisis management meeting. ITBP evacuated 4,000 people
- Point of concern is Jungle Chetti where 400-500 people are stuck
- 70-80 people are still stuck in Kedarnath
- Rescue operation is on. Hopefully, will be over by tomorrow
- Foot-tracks have been made from Jungle Chetti
- Gageria evacuated, nobody left
- NDRF rescued 143 people from Gaurikund
- Sadhus remain, they don't want to come down
- The Army has rescued 4,000 today
- Helicopters evacuated 3,000
- 100 people have been left in Hemkund Saab
- There is enough food and water there
- 8,000 people are stranded in Badrinath
- Railways are moving free of charge
- The Indian Air Force has done 150 sorties till his afternoon
- C130-J has been used today
- A total of 43 aircraft have been used
- With 11 Army and seven private, a total of 61 aircraft are being used
- Two more aircraft will join in tomorrow
- It is being made sure that enough supplies are at Gaucher
- Attempt made to see that Aviation turbine fuel is fully there
- Police squads have been provided
- LPG provided from Haridwar, Haldwani
- Supplies given so that local demands are taken care of
Status report from government of Uttarakhand
- Given facts the operations are going on, figures could be tentative
- Figures from 4pm today from Uttarakhand are: 557 deaths, 412 people injured, 70,000 evacuated and 22,000 stranded
Uttarakhand: Air Force's massive C-130J makes maiden landing at Dharasu, evacuates 130 peopleThose rescued include 17 foreign nationals, who arrived at the Hindon Air Force base near Ghaziabad, a suburb of Delhi.
The map below shows medical centres and relief camps set up in Uttarakhand:
17 foreign nationals evacuated by Indian Air Force from Dharasu in Uttarakhand
Foot move now possible between Gangotri & Harsil. 600 stranded pilgrims moved by Army. #Floodrelief
- ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) June 22, 2013
Vishnu Som reports from Gauchar: Roads from both sides have been cut off. No place for the choppers to land. Authorities have to quickly figure out how to rescue those stranded in Gauchar.
A 14 year-old boy was separated from his family in Rambara, Kedarnath. He has been rescued. Unfortunately, his father died in Rambara. The boy has been taken by the Army, and attempts are on to take him to his mother in Gaurikund.
JUST IN: Army's special forces locate 1000 survivors in mountains between Gaurikund and Rambara in Kedarnath
Uttarakhand: list of people brought to Sahastradhara helipad today
Click on the link for the list of people who have been rescued and brought to the Sahastradhara helipad today (June 21). For more information, please contact the Dehradun Police.
Click on the link for the list of people who have been rescued and brought to the Sahastradhara helipad today (June 21). For more information, please contact the Dehradun Police.
Uttarakhand: 550 dead, says state official; 50,000 still trapped
Days after Uttarakhand was pounded by landslides and torrential rain, 50,000 people are still stranded. The government said today that over 550 people have been found dead and warned that the death toll could rise dramatically as flood waters recede and rescue workers reach isolated areas.
Days after Uttarakhand was pounded by landslides and torrential rain, 50,000 people are still stranded. The government said today that over 550 people have been found dead and warned that the death toll could rise dramatically as flood waters recede and rescue workers reach isolated areas.
Death toll in Uttarakhand floods rises to above 550
National Disaster Response Force:
- DIG Rawat was able to go to Rambada area - about 1470 people rescued today. Operation is ongoing.
- Recovered 40 bodies from Kedarnath area
- Blade of a chopper got stuck on a tree. No passenger on board. Pilot was rescued.
- We will evacuate all those stranded in the next two days
Helpline numbers for people from Karnataka stuck in Uttarakhand:
080 2294 2222, 080 2225 0999
People in Bangalore can call 080 2225 3707
People in Dharwad can call 0836 2233840
Watch: The man who saw a wall of water hit Kedarnath templeAn eyewitness recounts the horror he witnessed when the floods came rushing from the mountains behind him at the Kedarnath temple. Nobody got a chance to run, he says.
Two elite teams of Navy divers - each team of 12 - have been sent to Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand: 50,000 still stranded, see today's over-view
Though, the temple itself suffered little damage, the area surrounding it has been ravaged by the fury of the floods.
Uttarakhand: Railways to allow rescued people to travel free of cost Extra rakes will also be added in Haridwar, to accommodate the rush of people .
ITBP Director General Ajay Chadha on rescue ops:
- We hope to pull out almost everyone by Sunday
- Almost all areas that were inaccessible till now have been reached
Here's what the Indian Army said at a presser about the rescue operations
- Today evening we will start phase two military operation
- Bridges have been built to rescue people
- Adam bases are being built
- We will transport people to safer places
- Logistics, petrol, medical support needs to be given
- We will bring them to Uttarkashi. We want your blessing
- 500 people are stuck at Gangotri, 300 at Bhairoghati
- In Harsil, about 1000 people are there
- In GauriKund, skilled mountain troops are carrying out ops - over 1500 people stranded
- ITBP leading Kedarnath operations and the town has been cleared by them
- We're not God, we're there to serve the people of India - in war, peace or natural calamities
- Not possible to give a timeline for rescue operations
- We are working under the state administration, not correct to say there is no coordination
C-130J, a transport aircraft, will land at Dharasu, an advanced landing ground south of Uttarkashi, carrying relief material
Two 30-metre-long foot bridges being airlifted for deployment in Kedarnath and Joshimath: Indian Army
These aluminium foot bridges are being airlifted from Pathankot to Kedarnath by Mi-17 helicopters
These aluminium foot bridges are being airlifted from Pathankot to Kedarnath by Mi-17 helicopters
Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari said at a presser:
- 33,192 pilgrims have been evacuated
- The Indian Air force has committed 13 more aircrafts. Total 43.
- Mi-26s will continue to operate and provide aviation fuel. It will lift heavy equipment of the BRO to rebuild roads and equipment to build advanced helipads
- Ministry of Home Affairs has ensured release of 145 crores from state disaster relief fund. Home Minister will visit Uttarakhand tomorrow
- 33,192 pilgrims and tourists have been rescued so far
- Relief work being carried out by state government along with ITBP, NDRF, SSB and armed forces
- 90 sorties conducted today
- Emergency services 100, 1021, 102 and 108 have been made operational
- Efforts being made to supply of water, fuel is also augmented
- Govt taking all measures to ensure people are rescued and receive relief
- Official casualty figures will be shared in the evening
- Due to the terrain and spread of the calamity, info is taking time to reach us.
Indian Air Force's largest helicopter Mi-26 joins 'Op Rahat '
IAF has committed 13 more aircraft to 'Op Rahat' taking the total number of aircraft to 43 from yesterday's 30.
IAF is also activating landing grounds - Gauchar and Dharasu in Uttarakhand to establish air bridge for chopper movement. It has plans to operate ALH and Chetah from Gauchar, north of Rudraprayag.
A heavy-lift Mi- 26 has already landed at Gauchar with 30 barrels of fuel and 70 paratroppers.
A C130J committed to recce mission to check valley clearance and facilitate further relief rescue operations is also planned to land at Dharasu.
Mi-26 will continue to operate in this area to maintain supply of aviation fuel and rescue work.It will also provide heli-lift to the heavy equipment of BRO for repairs and construction work as well as support construction of temporary helipads for better extraction of those stuck or stranded using small helicopters.
More helipads being built to speed up rescue operations Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) chief Ajay Chadha said the force along teams from the National Disaster Response Force were trying to set up a small helipad in Rambada, near Kedarnath, to enable choppers to land and evacuate people.
In three hours, Air Force has launched 65 sorties to rescue 550 stranded civilians and has airlifted 15,000 kgs of load to affected areas
VK Duggal has been asked to monitor and oversee all the relief measures in the state of Uttarakhand. Mr Duggal is a member of the National Disaster Management Authority and will be the points-person in coordinating rescue efforts of various agencies like the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF).
Helipads being built to speed up rescue in Uttarakhand
New Delhi, June 21 (IANS) With thousands of people still stranded in the mountainous state of Uttarakhand, the rescue teams are focusing on evacuating people stuck in the jungles between Kedarnath and Gaurikund and more helipads were being built, said ITBP chief Ajay Chadha Friday.
Addressing a press conference, Chadha said the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the National Disaster Response Force teams were trying to set up a small helipad in Rambada, near Kedarnath, to enable choppers to land and evacuate people.
"We are trying to evacuate people and trying to create a helipad to help people stuck in the jungles in Kedarnath and Gaurikund," Chadha said at a press conference.
New Delhi, June 21 (IANS) With thousands of people still stranded in the mountainous state of Uttarakhand, the rescue teams are focusing on evacuating people stuck in the jungles between Kedarnath and Gaurikund and more helipads were being built, said ITBP chief Ajay Chadha Friday.
Addressing a press conference, Chadha said the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the National Disaster Response Force teams were trying to set up a small helipad in Rambada, near Kedarnath, to enable choppers to land and evacuate people.
"We are trying to evacuate people and trying to create a helipad to help people stuck in the jungles in Kedarnath and Gaurikund," Chadha said at a press conference.
Uttarakhand: 14,000 people rescued by army, 60,000 still strandedHeroic rescue efforts by the army have rescued 14,000 people days after Uttarakhand was pounded by landslides and torrential rain. But 60,000 people are still stranded, and some of the worst-affected areas, near the famous Kedarnath temple, remain inaccessible.
State government: All pilgrims evacuated from Dharasu, Uttarkashi
As Uttarakhand is devastated by flood fury, our jawans from the Army, Air Force and ITBP have risen up to the Himalayan challenge, undertaking an unprecedented rescue and relief operation. NDTV salutes our brave men and women in uniform.
MET warning not good enough, says Disaster Management Chief M Shashidar Reddy, Vice Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority, says that the MET department warning was not specific enough.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bhauguna to NDTV:
- We have not been able to access people who were on foot between Guarikund and Kedarnath
- NDRF, Army, ITBP teams on foot are there
- The death toll is very high, but now our mission is to save those who are alive
- More than 500 roads damaged, 200 bridges washed out
- The worst is over and relief and rescue operations are on
- The damage in Kedarnath was because of a cloudburst
- This is the season where we get highest number of people. When you get severe rain warning do you evacuate the city?
- Uttarkashi, Rishikesh are cities built on rivers , they are centuries old.
- We want ecology balances with development; we have not sanctioned fresh projects.
Uttarakhand rains: Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh announces Rs 340 crore packageRural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh on Thursday announced a separate Rs 340 crore special package for Uttarakhand for constructing village roads in the flood-ravaged hill state.
Over 500 missing from Madhya Pradesh in Uttarakhand after the floods
Over 500 people from Madhya Pradesh have been reported missing from Uttarakhand after the floods. The state government not only announced Rs 5 crore to be given for the relief work but has also sent a special seven-member team to Rishikesh for relief work and rescue operation of over 1000 pilgrims from the state stranded there. The team is headed by public relations minister Laxmikant Sharma.
Over 500 people from Madhya Pradesh have been reported missing from Uttarakhand after the floods. The state government not only announced Rs 5 crore to be given for the relief work but has also sent a special seven-member team to Rishikesh for relief work and rescue operation of over 1000 pilgrims from the state stranded there. The team is headed by public relations minister Laxmikant Sharma.
Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh announces Rs 340 crore packageRural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh on Thursday announced a separate Rs 340 crore special package for Uttarakhand for constructing village roads in the flood-ravaged hill state.
No Kedarnath-Badrinath pilgrimage for three years, says official Pilgrimage to the shrines of Kedarnath and Badrinath in Uttarakhand will not be able to resume for three years due to the extensive damage caused by heavy rains and floods in the last few days.
10 dramatic pictures from Uttarakhand todayAll-out efforts are on to rescue the 65,000 people who are stranded in Uttarakhand due to flash floods. Here are the 10 dramatic pictures of the rescue operation and destruction from the state.
Army helpline for stranded pilgrims at Joshimath 0138922225
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) says:
- 17 bodies recovered from Kedarnath today
- Almost everyone from Kedarnath has been evacuated
- Kedarnath can't be accessed by roads
When the wall of water arrived at Kedarnath temple: priest"God and the army saved me," he said, "I worry thousands are killed."
Rescue operations in Uttarakhand have turned into the Army's largest ever - 8,500 soldiers, 30 Air Force aircraft, and 12 Army Aviation helicopters are being used, in addition to teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Into-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
Uttarakhand rain: spare no effort, Supreme Court orders governmentWith hundreds feared dead in Uttarakhand and more than 60,000 people still stranded in the state after torrential rain and landslides, the Supreme Court today ordered the central and state government to spare no effort to rescue people.
Watch Army rescue teams in action in UttarakhandDue to unavailability of landing areas, army troops are slithering down from choppers using ropes to get relief to people stranded in remote areas.
Road to Kedarnath: 50 kms away, a glimpse of the HimalayasNDTV travels on one of the lesser-used road, which connects remote villages in the Kedar Valley, en route Kedarnath, one of the worst-hit in Uttarakhand. See Pics
Had warned Uttarakhand government two days in advance: Met department
HELPLINE NUMBERS:
- Uttarakhand: 0135-2710334/ 0135-2710335/ 0135-2710233/ 011-23710362
- Rudraprayag, Uttarkashi and Chamoli: +919808151240, +919837134399
- Pauri, Haridwar and Nainital: +91999779124, +919451901023
- Almora, Bageshwar and Pithoragarh: +919456755206, +919634535758
- Indian Army (Medical): 18001805558/ 18004190282/ 8009833388
- Almora - 05962237874, 9411378137
- Pithoragarh - 05964228050, 9412079945
- Haridwar- 01334223999, 9837352202
- Bageshwar - 05963220197
- Nainital - 05942231179, 9456714092
- Udhamsingh Nagar - 05944250719, 9410376808
HELPLINE NUMBERS FOR PILGRIMS FROM MAHARASHTRA:
09869140663, 09818187793, 02222027990, 02222816625
Uttarakhand flood: Disaster natural but damage man-made?Indiscriminate development in the hill towns, with guest houses, hotels and all manners of illegal encroachment taking place along the rivers, it was a disaster waiting to happen. Since 2002, there has been a ban on building within 100 metres of the river bed.
Road to Kedarnath: see the damage in epicentre of rain furyNDTV travels to Kedar Valley - situated near Kedarnath - where the real magnitude of destruction in Uttarakhand comes to the fore. Roads have been washed away, practically severing all connectivity to Kedarnath where hundreds are still stranded.
See hardest-hit areas in Uttarakhand:
Uttarakhand: hundreds feared killed, choppers can't reach KedarnathThough 120 people are reported dead so far from the "Himalayan Tsunami" in Uttarakhand, officials say they expect the death toll to eventually hit the thousands. 65,000 people are waiting to be rescued.
