Uttarkashi: A devastating cloudburst over the Khir Ganga catchment area triggered severe flooding in Dharali, a key stop on the Gangotri Dham route, causing widespread destruction on Tuesday. The sudden surge in water from the Khirgad stream swept through the town, damaging and washing away numerous structures.
According to initial reports, around 20 to 25 hotels and homestays have been completely destroyed. Several other residential and commercial buildings were either severely damaged or flooded with debris and water. Eyewitnesses report that 10 to 12 laborers may be trapped under the debris, though official confirmation is awaited.
Local residents said the cloudburst occurred in the upper reaches of the Khir Ganga catchment area, causing a massive increase in water level in Khirgad stream. The floodwaters reached Dharali and nearby Mukhwa, rapidly inundating low-lying areas. As the torrent entered the market area, many hotels, shops, and houses were swept away or heavily damaged. Panic-stricken tourists and locals had to flee to save their lives.
Rescue and relief operations are underway on a war footing. Teams from SDRF, NDRF, the district administration, and other agencies are engaged in search and rescue efforts to locate those trapped in the debris.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and directed all concerned agencies to take immediate action. He instructed that rescue operations be carried out promptly and efficiently, assuring all possible assistance to the affected families.
A sense of fear and panic prevails in the region, and the administration has urged people to remain calm and vigilant.
