Double Flash Flood In Uttarkashi: After Dharali, Uttarkashi's Sukhi Top Hit By Cloudburst

A devastating cloudburst hit Sukhi Top in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, on Tuesday afternoon, causing significant damage. Earlier, a mudslide had struck Dharali village near Harsil, leading to a sudden flow of debris and water. The Indian Army reported that the flash flood resulted in at least four deaths and many missing persons in Dharali village.

The disaster occurred around 1:40 pm, sweeping through the area with boulders, debris, and mud. This led to the destruction of homes, shops, homestays, and hotels. The village is located just one kilometre from Harsil on the Gangotri highway, an important pilgrimage route to Gangotri Dham.

Rescue Efforts Underway

District Disaster Management Officer Shardul Gusain confirmed the recovery of four bodies so far. "We have received reports of four fatalities. Rescue teams from the district administration, police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the army have been deployed to the site and rescue operations are ongoing," Gusain said.

Officials believe more people may have been swept away by the deluge. The exact toll will be determined once assessment teams return from the affected site. Preliminary reports indicate that a cloudburst in higher areas caused a sudden rise in the Kheer Ganga rivulet.

Eyewitness Accounts

The surge caught villagers completely off guard. "The water came in like a wall. Within moments, it swept away everything," said Lokendra Bisht, a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and owner of a homestay in Harsil. "People were going about their daily activities when the flood hit. Several homes, hotels, and shops have been completely destroyed," he added.

Visuals from the scene depict wrecked structures and debris-covered roads as locals attempt to salvage their belongings amidst panic. The area remains isolated due to road blockages and disrupted communication lines.

Government Response

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is closely monitoring the situation and has instructed officials to intensify rescue efforts. "The loss of lives and property in Uttarkashi is tragic. I have instructed the district administration to ensure swift and coordinated rescue and relief operations," he stated.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with CM Dhami to assess the situation further. During their conversation, Shah expressed concern over the loss of lives and extensive destruction caused by the flood. He assured state authorities of all possible assistance from the Centre.

Support From Central Agencies

Shah emphasized that central government support would be unwavering during this difficult time for Uttarakhand. He assured that necessary personnel and resources from central agencies like NDRF would continue aiding local authorities.

Additional teams and helicopters are ready for deployment if needed. Temporary shelters and relief camps are being established in nearby safe zones for those displaced by this disaster.