Following the disaster in Dharali, Uttarkashi, a new lake has formed near the Bhagirathi River due to debris from the Khir Ganga and Tailsang rivers, posing a serious flood risk. The administration and experts are closely monitoring the situation and manual channelization has been initiated to control the water level.
Uttarakhand: Following the devastating disaster in the Dharali area of Uttarkashi, the flow of the Bhagirathi River has been obstructed, leading to the formation of a new lake approximately one kilometer long. This lake is formed by debris from the Khir Ganga and Tailsang rivers, increasing the risk of flash floods in the area. The administration is closely monitoring the situation and has started manual channelization work to control the lake's water level, in order to gain control before any untoward incident occurs.
Management of the New Lake and Administration's Preparedness
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that manual channelization will be done to reduce the water in this lake. It may take 10 to 15 days to get heavy machinery here, while the danger is immediate. Therefore, a team of 30 personnel is engaged in manual work. Experts believe that regular geological surveys and cleaning of drains are necessary in Himalayan regions to prevent debris from accumulating and obstructing river flow. Additionally, scientific study and management of lakes formed after disasters is essential to prevent the risk of sudden floods.
Impact of the Severe Devastation in Dharali
On August 5, heavy rainfall due to a sudden cloudburst in Dharali caused a large amount of debris to accumulate in the Khir Ganga and Tailsang drains, leading to a flood situation in the area. This disaster severely damaged markets, houses, shops, and hotels. In addition, the obstruction of the Bhagirathi River's flow has completely changed the surrounding terrain. The risk of such hazards has increased due to climate change and uncontrolled construction activities. The administration and scientists are working with the local community towards better coordination and disaster management.
Relief Efforts and the Situation of Those Affected
Following the Dharali disaster, relief teams from NDRF, SDRF, Police, and ITBP are engaged in rescue operations. So far, six bodies have been recovered, while 48 people are missing, including 14 from Uttarakhand, 12 from Bihar, 9 from Nepal, 3 from Uttar Pradesh, 1 from Rajasthan, and one army soldier. The region's economy depends on tourism, which has now been completely affected. The shutdown of hotels, shops, and transportation services has created a serious crisis for the livelihoods of local people. The affected community hopes that tourism activities will return to normal as soon as road connectivity is restored and safety is ensured.
