Tragic Phone Call Before Disaster Strikes

In a heart-wrenching incident, a father from Nepal, Vijay Singh, recounted his last conversation with his son before the devastating Uttarkashi flood. Singh, a migrant laborer, was working in Uttarakhand’s Harsil Valley when he received a distressing call from his son. “Papa, we won’t survive,” his son said, describing the overwhelming water levels caused by a cloudburst that led to massive flash floods and landslides. This tragic event left Singh’s son and many others missing.

Migrant Laborers Caught in the Flood

Singh and his wife, Kali Devi, were part of a group of 26 laborers from Nepal engaged in road and bridge construction in the valley. On Tuesday, the couple left for Bhatwari, 47 kilometers away, unaware of the impending disaster. By Wednesday, communication with the remaining 24 laborers was lost. The couple attempted to return to Harsil Valley but were halted at Gangawadi due to a washed-away bridge.

Desperate Plea for Help

Kali Devi expressed her anguish over leaving her children behind and appealed to authorities for assistance in returning to Harsil Valley to search for them. The disaster also affected army personnel in the area, with 11 jawans reported missing.

Widespread Destruction in Uttarakhand

The extreme rainfall in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh has caused significant damage, leading to flash floods and landslides. In Dharali village near Harsil, the cloudburst resulted in at least five deaths and trapped numerous individuals. Efforts are underway to airlift equipment for rescue operations and assist stranded pilgrims.

Government Response and Rescue Efforts

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is overseeing rescue operations as weather conditions improve. The National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force are actively searching for missing persons amid challenging conditions.