New Delhi: In a devastating natural disaster, at least 10 people have lost their lives and more than 100 are feared missing following massive flash floods triggered by a cloudburst in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand on Tuesday. The worst-affected area is Dharali village, located near the Harsil region — a key stop en route to the sacred Gangotri Dham.
According to District Magistrate Prashant Arya, the cloudburst struck the higher reaches of Dharali, causing a sudden rise in water levels in the Khir Ganga stream. The fast-moving water carried along with it huge amounts of debris, damaging dozens of structures including residential homes, hotels, and homestays.
Eyewitnesses and local reports confirmed that nearly 20–25 such establishments were completely swept away in the gushing waters. Rescue officials fear that at least 10–12 labourers could be buried under the debris.
Emergency teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Army, and the Revenue Department rushed to the site and began rescue and relief operations immediately. Uttarkashi police issued advisories to residents, asking them to stay away from riverbanks and ensure the safety of children and livestock.
“The water level in Kheer Gad has risen dangerously. Damage in Dharali has prompted coordinated rescue efforts by the police, Army, SDRF, and other agencies,” Uttarkashi police said in a statement on social media.
As relief operations continue, the scale of destruction is becoming more apparent. Several roads leading to the area have been damaged, making accessibility a challenge for rescue teams. Panic and fear have gripped residents and tourists in the region, especially with rainfall continuing in many parts of the district.
