Devastating Flash Floods Hit Uttarakhand; Homes, Hotels Swept Away, Several Missing
A powerful flash flood triggered by intense rainfall wreaked havoc in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district, leaving at least four people dead and many others missing as rescue teams race against time to locate survivors. The disaster struck the Himalayan village of Dharali, a popular tourist stop, after a sudden and forceful surge of water swept through the area.
Hotels, Shops and Homes Destroyed Within Minutes
Residents described the terrifying moment when water, mud and debris smashed into the village shortly after heavy rain pounded the region. Nearly a dozen hotels, along with shops and residential buildings, were washed away in seconds, leaving behind only rubble and twisted metal.
The scale of destruction has shocked officials, as entire structures along the riverbank vanished under the impact of the floodwater. The popular tourist route leading to Gangotri has also suffered severe damage, affecting movement in the region.
Dozens Still Missing as Rescue Operations Intensify
More than 150 personnel from the Indian Army have been deployed for search and rescue efforts, alongside teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities. Conditions remain dangerous due to continuous rainfall and unstable terrain. Several people remain missing, and authorities fear the toll may rise.
IMD Issued Heavy Rain Alerts, Cause Still Under Review
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed it had been issuing regular heavy rainfall warnings for the region over the past few days. However, officials have not yet confirmed whether the disaster was the result of a cloudburst, landslide-induced dam burst, or another weather phenomenon.
Meteorologists say Uttarakhand’s mountainous topography, combined with intense and unpredictable monsoon rainfall, makes the region vulnerable to flash floods and landslides.
Government Promises Relief and Compensation
The Uttarakhand government has activated emergency control rooms and announced immediate relief measures for affected families. Temporary shelters have been set up for those displaced, and efforts are underway to restore road connectivity and essential services.
Chief Minister officials stated that every possible resource—from helicopters to heavy machinery—will be utilized to support rescue and recovery operations.
A Grim Reminder of Himalayan Fragility
This incident adds to the growing list of devastating weather-related disasters in the Himalayan belt in recent years. Environmental experts warn that rapid construction near riverbanks, unplanned tourism growth, and climate-driven extreme rainfall are increasing the frequency and intensity of such calamities.
For now, the priority remains rescuing survivors and providing relief to the hundreds affected by this sudden disaster.
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