Janhit: Find Out ! What Is the Extent of Damage After the Tragic Cloudburst Sweeps Through Dharali? | ABP NEWS

A devastating cloudburst struck Dharali, a key stop on the way to Gangotri Dham in Uttarakhand, about 5 kilometers from Dehradun, causing massive destruction and loss of life. The incident took place in the afternoon when a sudden surge of muddy water rushed through the Khir Ganga river, sweeping away everything in its path. The natural calamity unfolded with terrifying speed. Within just one minute, a large portion of Dharali town was engulfed by the floodwaters. This catastrophic flood was captured on mobile cameras, showing people running for their lives as water levels rose rapidly, tearing through homes and buildings. The flood was so powerful that it completely destroyed around 25 hotels, restaurants, and homestays along the riverbank. Prior to the disaster, no warning or alert was issued, and the area was bustling with regular daily activity despite ongoing rains. Rescue operations are currently underway on a war footing with the involvement of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Indian Army. The darkness of night has slowed rescue efforts, but teams remain hopeful that operations will intensify at dawn to save more lives. Tragically, at least four people have been confirmed dead, and over 50 are reported missing. The administration is still assessing the full extent of the damage as many areas remain inaccessible due to the debris and continuing hazards. The cloudburst caused the Khir Ganga river to split into two channels near its confluence with the Bhagirathi river, with one new channel causing severe destruction in Dharali. The floodwaters brought down a massive amount of debris and mud, burying large parts of the town under rubble up to 20-25 feet high. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the site and assured rapid relief and rescue operations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the disaster and directed officials to expedite rescue efforts. Home Minister Amit Shah is also in close contact with state authorities. The formation of a temporary lake in the Bhagirathi river due to the cloudburst has raised concerns about potential flash floods in the coming days, prompting the administration to remain vigilant. This tragic event serves as a harsh reminder of nature’s unpredictable fury in the Himalayan region, underscoring the urgent need for better early warning systems and disaster preparedness.