Cloudburst Triggers Floods in Dharali, India

Uttarakhand, India: A sudden cloudburst late Monday night in Dharali, an important stop near Gangotri Dham in Uttarkashi district, triggered massive flooding in the Khir Ganga River, causing widespread destruction.

Around 20 to 25 hotels and homestays in the Dharali area, considered the backbone of local tourism, were completely destroyed by the floodwaters. The market area is now covered with debris, with shops, houses, and roads buried under the mud and rubble.

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Local sources fear that 10 to 12 laborers involved in construction and maintenance work of these hotels may be trapped under the debris.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and local officials have reached the site. Search operations are underway using drones and heavy machinery, but rescue efforts face challenges due to the difficult terrain.

The ancient Kalp Kedarnath Temple, located near the riverbank, has also been engulfed by the flood debris, though its exact condition is still unclear.

Authorities have declared high alert in the region and have warned tourists and locals to avoid riverbanks and not to spread rumors. The district administration has informed SDRF, NDRF, and other rescue agencies to be ready for further assistance.

Nearby areas are also being closely monitored for possible flood risks, and people have been urged to stay vigilant and follow safety instructions.