A sudden cloudburst in the upper catchment of the Kheer Ganga River triggered a catastrophic flash flood in Dharali village, a key stopover on the route to Gangotri. Officials confirmed at least four fatalities, with over 50 individuals reported missing as rescue operations continue amid worsening weather conditions.
Disaster Strikes in Minutes — Village Erased
Around 1:45 pm on August 5, torrential rainfall caused a massive surge down the valley, sweeping away homes, shops, and dozens of hotels. The village was largely flattened within seconds, with debris-laden floodwaters destroying local infrastructure.
A second cloudburst hit Sukhi Top, downstream of Dharali, increasing damage and complicating rescue efforts.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Terrain and Monsoon
Teams from the Indian Army, ITBP, SDRF, and NDRF have evacuated about 130 people so far. Helicopters—including Chinooks and Mi-17s—were on standby, but continuous rain and landslides severely limit operations.
Authorities say up to 60–70 people, including 11 army personnel, remain unaccounted for and are believed trapped under debris. One body has been recovered so far, raising the death toll to five, though officials warn the final numbers could rise as searches continue.
Climate Hazard Becomes a Seasonal Threat
Dharali—located in the hilly terrain beside the river—is prone to sudden flood surges during monsoon months. Locals say floods are now a common seasonal hazard rather than an anomaly, with many recalling scenes reminiscent of the 2013 Kedarnath disaster.
The India Meteorological Department recorded over 210mm of rainfall in 24 hours in the affected area. Experts note that the frequency and severity of such cloudbursts are increasing, driven by climate change and unpredictable monsoon patterns.
Government Response and Relief Measures
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed their condolences and promised immediate support. Emergency meetings have been held, and key resources mobilized to support rescue efforts “on a war footing.”
Road connectivity along the NH 34 Uttarkashi–Gangotri corridor has been disrupted by landslides and washouts, further hindering relief logistics. Officials have relocated displaced residents to temporary shelters in schools and hotels in safer locations.
