Kerala Tourists Missing After Uttarakhand Disaster

A group of 28 tourists from Kerala has gone missing following a devastating cloudburst in Uttarakhand. The incident triggered massive mudslides, leaving family members anxious and desperate for news. The group, comprising 20 individuals from Kerala settled in Maharashtra and eight from various districts in Kerala, was last heard from while traveling from Uttarkashi to Gangotri.

Communication Breakdown and Search Efforts

The tourists’ last known communication was with the son of one couple in the group. They had informed him of their departure at 8:30 am, but since then, all contact has been lost. The landslides along their route have made it impossible to reach them. A Haridwar-based travel agency, responsible for organizing the 10-day tour, has also been unable to provide updates due to the lack of mobile network coverage in the affected region.

Impact of the Cloudburst on Dharali

The cloudburst that struck on Tuesday afternoon has claimed at least four lives and caused significant destruction in Dharali, an ecologically sensitive area. Nearly half of the village is buried under a thick layer of mud, debris, and water. Dharali is a crucial stop on the pilgrimage route to Gangotri, known for its hotels and homestays catering to travelers.

Ongoing Rescue Operations

Rescue operations are underway as officials work tirelessly to locate the missing tourists and provide aid to those affected by the disaster. The challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions are hindering efforts, but authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved.