A devastating cloudburst struck the Dharali area of Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand on Tuesday, unleashing a fierce flash flood that has caused large-scale destruction. At least four people have lost their lives, and more than 50 individuals are feared missing as raging waters swept through the region.
The cloudburst occurred in the catchment area of the Kheer Ganga river near Harsil, leading to a sudden rise in water levels and triggering a massive landslide. Entire stretches of the village, including markets, shops, and homes, were washed away in the deluge. Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes as strong currents of water cascaded down the hills, destroying everything in their path.
Preliminary reports suggest that 20 to 25 hotels and homestays may have been completely destroyed. Local residents believe that 10 to 12 people could be buried under the debris.
Multiple rescue teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and local police, have been deployed to carry out rescue and relief operations. Over 150 army personnel are on the ground, assisting with evacuations and searching for survivors.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed grief over the incident and said that both the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police have rushed to the site. He assured that all possible help is being provided, and rescue efforts are being intensified.
Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister confirmed that teams have been sent, and a complete damage assessment will be conducted before further action is taken.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also reviewed the situation and spoke with the Chief Minister. He confirmed the dispatch of four NDRF teams and three ITBP units to the affected area to assist with rescue operations.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has forecast extremely heavy rainfall for various parts of Uttarakhand, and authorities have issued alerts for landslides and flash floods.
This is the second cloudburst to hit Uttarkashi in a day, with another one reported in the Sukhi Top area, further compounding the damage and fear among locals.
