Hanle, Ladakh: Indian Army Aids in Storm Relief After Historic Monastery Damaged

Hanle, India | August 5, 2025 – A sudden and powerful storm has caused significant damage in the remote Hanle region of eastern Ladakh, including to the centuries-old Hanle Monastery. The Indian Army has launched a swift relief effort, providing crucial support to the local community and restoring normalcy in the high-altitude area.

The storm, characterized by high-speed winds, struck over the weekend, tearing off roofs and scattering debris. The Hanle Gompa, a vital religious and cultural landmark, suffered structural damage. The monastery, situated atop a hill, is not only a spiritual center for local Buddhists but also a symbol of Ladakh’s rich heritage.
According to visuals circulating on social media, including a widely shared Instagram reel titled “True All Weather Friendship”, the Indian Army swiftly responded to the crisis, providing immediate assistance and restoring normalcy in the region.

Ancient Monastery Hit by Winds

High-speed winds and possible localized storm activity caused significant structural damage to buildings in and around Hanle, including the iconic Hanle Gompa. The monastery, perched atop a hill, is not just a religious site for local Buddhists but also a key cultural and historical landmark of Ladakh.

Eyewitnesses from nearby villages reported the sudden onset of the weather disturbance, which left families shaken. The storm caused roofs to fly off and debris to scatter, leading to unsafe conditions.

Army Steps In With Relief and Support

Responding promptly, personnel from the Indian Army’s Ladakh-based units reached the affected site within hours. Army engineers and field units helped in clearing debris, stabilizing structures, and setting up emergency shelters for monks and villagers who were temporarily displaced due to the storm.

The viral reel shows army officials coordinating with local residents, distributing supplies, and offering emotional support — highlighting the Indian Army’s motto of being “not just warriors but protectors and friends.”

“It is in these difficult moments that the bond between the Army and the people of Ladakh becomes even stronger,” a local official told Delhi Magazine.

Cultural and Strategic Significance

Hanle is not only a spiritual center but also a strategically important location near the India-China border. It also houses the Indian Astronomical Observatory, one of the world’s highest observatories, and is known for its pristine skies and remote beauty.

The incident has reignited discussions on improving disaster preparedness in such high-altitude areas where infrastructure remains vulnerable to sudden weather changes.

Praise for “All Weather” Friendship

Social media users praised the Army’s efforts, with many commenting on the warmth and humanity shown by the soldiers. The video’s caption, “True all-weather friendship”, resonated widely, emphasizing the mutual respect and trust between Ladakhi civilians and Indian forces.) optimized it according to google news

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sonam Wangchuk (@wangchuksworld)

Hanle, Ladakh: Indian Army Aids in Storm Relief After Historic Monastery Damaged

Visuals of the Army’s response, including a widely-shared Instagram reel, highlight the military’s rapid deployment. Personnel from Ladakh-based units arrived within hours to clear debris, stabilize damaged buildings, and set up emergency shelters for displaced monks and villagers. The video, captioned “True All Weather Friendship,” has drawn widespread praise online, showcasing the deep bond and mutual respect between the Army and the people of Ladakh.

A local official, speaking to Delhi Magazine, emphasized this bond, stating, “It is in these difficult moments that the bond between the Army and the people of Ladakh becomes even stronger.”

Hanle holds both cultural and strategic importance, housing the Indian Astronomical Observatory and located near the India-China border. The incident has initiated new discussions on the need for improved disaster preparedness in such vulnerable, high-altitude regions.