Road connectivity between Uttarkashi and Harsil has finally been restored, more than three weeks after devastating flash floods hit Dharali on August 5. Despite the reopening of the route, the Gangotri yatra remains suspended, as parts of the Gangotri national highway near Harsil are still damaged or submerged.
District Magistrate Prashant Arya has instructed the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to expedite repair work so that pilgrims can resume the yatra safely. BRO teams are working round the clock to clear damaged stretches and restore full access. Roads at Limchygad, Dabrani, and Songad have been repaired, providing much-needed relief to local residents. Power, water, and communication lines have also been restored in Dharali, Harsil, and surrounding villages. Essential supplies are being delivered, and government agencies remain on high alert to monitor the situation.
The flash floods of August 5 were triggered by the Kheer Ganga river, which swept away nearly half of Dharali, including key infrastructure such as hotels, homestays, and even an Army camp in Harsil. Residents had only moments to escape to safety.
Tragically, sixty-nine people went missing in the disaster, including nine Army personnel, 25 Nepali workers, 13 people from Bihar, six from Uttar Pradesh, eight locals from Dharali, five from nearby Uttarkashi, two from Tehri, and one from Rajasthan. The body of a local man from Dharali was recovered shortly after the floods.
Authorities continue to prioritize rescue and rehabilitation efforts, while repair work on the Gangotri highway and surrounding infrastructure is being accelerated to ensure safety for locals and pilgrims alike.