Uttarkashi Cloudburst: Flash Floods Ravage Dharali Village, Hotels and Homes Swept Away

A cloudburst over the upper catchment of the Kheer Ganga river triggered massive flash floods in Uttarkashi district’s Dharali village on Tuesday (5 August), causing widespread devastation, Times of India reported.

The floods, marked by raging waters and landslides, swept away homes, hotels, shops, and roads, virtually washing away the entire village.

Dramatic videos showed torrents of water engulfing structures and leaving behind piles of rubble and mud. Dharali, located along the route to the Gangotri Dham, was one of the worst-hit areas.

According to the Uttarkashi district police, the cloudburst occurred near the Kheer Gadh stream in the Harsil area. Rescue operations involving the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Army personnel, and local authorities are underway.

According to reports, 10 to 12 labourers may be trapped under the debris.

Several hotels and homestays have been completely demolished by the floodwaters, according to initial reports.

In the nearby Banala Patti area of Barkot tehsil, around 18 goats were washed away by an overflowing stream, Kud Gadhera.

Rescue teams have been mobilised from Harsil and Bhatwari, and are working in challenging terrain amid continuous rain and heavy sludge.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of sustained heavy rainfall across Uttarakhand, particularly in the hills, until August 10. 

Further details are awaited.

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