Deeply Saddened: IIT Roorkee Responds as Graduate Goes Missing in Kedarnath Flash Flood

IIT Roorkee expressed deep sorrow over the disappearance of Rupin Samariya, a recent B.Tech graduate, who went missing following the flash floods near Kedarnath.

IIT Roorkee has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident involving Rupin Samariya, a recent B.Tech graduate, who has been missing since the devastating flash floods that struck the Kedarnath region in late July. The institute extended its full cooperation to Rupin’s family and the authorities, holding out hope for his safe return.

Rupin, 24, from Beawar, Rajasthan, had visited Kedarnath with his friend Dhanendra Singh just a day after receiving his engineering degree at IIT Roorkee's convocation ceremony on July 27. The two had gone to offer prayers at the Kedarnath shrine, but disaster struck during their return journey on July 31, when a flash flood swept through the Gaurikund-Kedarnath route, which was heavily damaged at 29 locations.

Dhanendra, who survived the flood, recounted the terrifying moment when the Mandakini river’s water level suddenly rose, sweeping them both away. He last saw Rupin being carried away by the powerful currents, clutching a bag containing his IIT degree and laptop. Despite searching the area after regaining consciousness, Dhanendra was unable to find his friend.

Rupin’s father, Amarchand Samariya, has been tirelessly searching for his son ever since, making five trips to Uttarakhand and filing a missing person report with local authorities. He has also appealed to the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, for assistance. The family has been distributing posters across key locations in the Garhwal region, hoping for any leads.

IIT Roorkee continues to support the search efforts, and the community stands in solidarity with Rupin’s family during this difficult time.