Cloudburst in Dharali, Uttarkashi Triggers Flash Flood in Khir Ganga River. Over 20 Hotels and Homestays Swept Away. 10 to 12 Laborers Feared Trapped Under Debris.
Uttarkashi Cloudburst: A devastating flood struck Dharali, a key stopover on the Gangotri Dham route in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, late Monday night, wreaking havoc across the region. The flood was triggered by a cloudburst over the Khir Ganga River, causing the river to swell dramatically. According to locals, the cloudburst occurred in the upper reaches of the Khir Ganga catchment area, leading to a sudden surge in the river's water level and sending a destructive deluge towards Dharali.
Heavy Damage to Hotels, Homestays, and Market
Approximately 20 to 25 hotels and homestays in the Dharali area have been completely destroyed by the flood. These establishments were considered the backbone of the local tourism industry, and their destruction has resulted in significant economic losses and a severe impact on the livelihoods of local residents.
The Dharali market is now a scene of widespread debris. Shops, houses, and roads have been buried under the rubble carried by the floodwaters. According to the administration and local residents, the water in the market area rose so rapidly that people were forced to flee to safety. Many families abandoned their homes overnight, seeking refuge in higher ground.
Laborers Feared Trapped, Relief Operations Underway
According to information received from local residents, approximately 10 to 12 laborers may be trapped in the flood. These laborers were involved in the construction or maintenance of hotels and homestays and were present at the time of the incident. Rescue operations are ongoing, and administrative teams are continuously clearing debris to search for those trapped.
Officials from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and local administration have reached the site. A search operation is being conducted with the help of drones and machinery. However, relief efforts are being hampered by adverse weather conditions and the sheer volume of debris.
Ancient Kalp Kedar Temple Also Affected
The ancient Kalp Kedar Temple, located on the banks of the Khir Ganga River, has also been affected by the flood. Local residents say that the temple has been buried under debris, although this has not yet been confirmed by the administration. The temple has been a center of religious faith, and its damage has caused a deep wound to the area's cultural heritage.
Administration Issues Warning
The Uttarkashi administration has issued a high alert throughout the region. Tourists and local residents have been urged to stay away from the rivers and not to believe any rumors. The administration has also issued helpline numbers so that people in need can contact them immediately.
The District Magistrate stated that the SDRF, NDRF, and other rescue agencies have been alerted. People in the surrounding areas are also being evacuated to safer locations in view of the potential danger.
