Tragic Flash Floods Hit Uttarakhand’s Dharali Village

A devastating cloudburst struck the Dharali area near Harsil in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, leading to flash floods and landslides that have claimed at least four lives. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, causing widespread destruction and leaving several individuals feared trapped under debris. The landslide was reported around 1:45 pm near Dharali village, which is located just 4 km from the Indian Army camp at Harshil.

Impact on Local Infrastructure and Community

Dharali serves as a crucial stopover on the route to Gangotri and hosts numerous hotels, restaurants, and homestays. The cloudburst occurred in the catchment area of the Kheer Ganga river, resulting in catastrophic floods. Videos from the scene depicted torrents of water rushing down, with residents scrambling for safety amidst panic and chaos.

Emergency Response and Rescue Operations

The Indian Army swiftly responded to the disaster, with initial teams reaching the affected town promptly. The Army confirmed a massive mudslide had struck Dharali, causing a sudden influx of debris and water through the settlement. Authorities, including the police, fire department, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other disaster relief teams, are actively engaged in rescue operations.

Government’s Stance and Ongoing Monitoring

Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing that rescue teams are working “on a war footing” to manage the crisis. He assured continuous monitoring of the situation while maintaining communication with senior officials. The Chief Minister urged locals to stay away from riverbanks to ensure their safety.

Climate Change and Increasing Disasters

Experts highlight that such deadly floods and landslides are common during the monsoon season from June to September. However, climate change and urbanization are exacerbating their frequency and intensity. Authorities continue to advise residents to prioritize safety measures for themselves and their livestock.