The State Disaster Response Force rescued roughly 28 tourists after a severe storm damaged floating huts on Tehri Lake [1].
The incident highlights the vulnerability of floating tourism infrastructure during extreme weather events in the Uttarakhand highlands. Rapid response by emergency teams prevented potential casualties as high-velocity winds compromised the stability of the residential structures.
The rescue operation took place near the Dobra-Chanthi bridge in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand [1], [2]. Rescuers reached the stranded individuals after a severe storm caused significant damage to the floating huts, leaving the occupants unable to reach the shore safely [2].
Reports on the exact number of people saved vary slightly between sources. One report said that 28 tourists were rescued [1], while another indicated that between 25 and 30 people were saved during the operation [2].
The State Disaster Response Force utilized specialized equipment to navigate the lake and evacuate the tourists from the damaged huts. High-velocity winds were identified as the primary cause of the structural failures [1], [2].
Local authorities have not yet released a formal statement regarding the structural integrity of the floating huts or whether safety protocols were followed prior to the storm. The rescue was completed without reported injuries to the tourists or the response teams [1].
“The State Disaster Response Force rescued roughly 28 tourists after a severe storm damaged floating huts on Tehri Lake.”
This event underscores the inherent risks of expanding luxury 'floating' tourism in mountainous regions prone to sudden, severe weather. As Uttarakhand continues to develop niche tourism attractions, the reliance on the State Disaster Response Force for emergency evacuations suggests a potential gap in the preventative safety infrastructure of these temporary water-based dwellings.
