A catastrophic cloudburst struck Dharali village in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, unleashing flash floods and mudslides that caused widespread destruction, according to reports. The disaster, centered in the Kheer Ganga river catchment area, swept away numerous homes, shops, and infrastructure, leaving the village in chaos. Local authorities confirmed that the deluge obliterated dozens of residences, with estimates suggesting 20 to 25 hotels and homestays may have been completely washed away. At least four fatalities have been reported, and several individuals remain missing, with fears that some may be trapped under debris.
Rescue operations were promptly launched, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indian Army, and local police mobilized to the scene. The NDRF dispatched four teams to aid in the efforts, while the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) sent a 16-member unit, with additional personnel from its 12th Battalion en route from Matli, Uttarakhand. The Indian Army’s Ibex Brigade, stationed near Harsil, was among the first responders, rescuing at least 15 people, according to PTI. Authorities are working tirelessly to locate survivors and provide medical aid, with AIIMS Rishikesh on standby to treat the injured.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described the incident as “extremely sad and distressing,” stating that relief efforts are underway on a war footing. Dhami, who visited the State Disaster Operations Centre in Dehradun to oversee the response, remains in close contact with senior officials. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah also reached out to Dhami, assuring full central government support. The Uttarkashi District Emergency Operation Centre issued helpline numbers—01374-222126, 01374-222722, and 9456556431—to assist affected families.
The India Meteorological Department had warned of heavy rainfall in Uttarkashi and other districts, prompting school closures in Dehradun. The disaster has disrupted mobile networks, complicating rescue efforts. Former Chief Minister Harish Rawat called the event “alarming,” noting the increasing frequency of cloudbursts in the region, reminiscent of the 2013 Kedarnath tragedy.