Uttarakhand cloudburst: A sudden cloudburst hit the Dharali village in the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand on Tuesday. Thus, it caused a flash flood that swept away multi-storey buildings, roads, and shops in this Himalayan tourist spot. As per the authorities, a minimum of four people are missing. However, there is a fear that the number could rise as dozens may be trapped under the debris.
The disaster began around 1:30 PM IST when an intense downpour caused the Kheerganga river to overflow, which sent a torrent of muddy water crashing through the settlement. Moreover, eyewitness videos show residents screaming “run, run” as the surge destroyed hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
Uttarakhand Cloudburst Creates Artificial Lake, Blocks Bhagirathi River
The silt and debris from the flood have blocked a part of the Bhagirathi River. So the blockage has formed an artificial lake that has submerged a large area, including the government helipad.
Experts have further warned that downstream towns and villages could be at risk if the water is not drained. Moreover, the ancient Kalpkedar temple is reported to be covered with mud. However, the damage operation is underway.
Rescue Teams, Army, and ITBP on the Ground in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed that army and paramilitary teams have reached Dharali “on a war footing”. Moreover, personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) are using loudspeakers to warn residents to stay away from the floodwaters.
Prime Minister of India “Narender Modi” expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), assuring that “no stone is being left unturned” in relief and rescue efforts.
Top official of Utarkashi, “Prasant Arya,” said that poor connectivity has made coordination hard. However, injured victims are being treated at the army camp in Harsil.
Monsoon Risks and Climate Change Concerns
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for rain. So, it has been reported that heavy rain is expected in these conditions. Moreover, the rainfall of 21 cm is also predicted in these isolated areas.
Deadline floods and landslides are common during the monsoon season (June–September). However, experts have warned that climate change and rapid urbanization are boosting their intensity and frequency.
The World Meteorological Organization of the UN has already called such an extreme event a “distress signal” of worsening global water cycle. For now, Uttarakhand remains on high alert, and rescue teams are racing against time to find survivors before the condition further worsens.
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