 "Search and rescue operation underway following flash floods triggered by a cloudburst, at Dharali, in Uttarkashi. PTI")
A cloudburst struck Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district late Friday night, unleashing heavy debris flow that caused widespread destruction. Tharali market, Kotdeep, and the Tharali tehsil complex were among the worst-hit areas, with mud and rubble sweeping into homes, the SDM residence, and several buildings.
Vehicles parked at the tehsil complex were buried, while streets turned into pools of water and debris. In Sagwara village, a young girl is feared dead after being trapped under the rubble, triggering panic among locals who rushed out of their homes as rescue operations got underway.
Shops in Chepdaon market also suffered damage, and one person has been reported missing, adding to the crisis.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed concern, saying he is in constant touch with officials monitoring relief efforts. In a post on X, he wrote, “Late last night, a tragic report of a cloudburst was received in the Tharali area of Chamoli district. The district administration, SDRF, and police have reached the spot and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. In this regard, I am in constant contact with the local administration and am personally closely monitoring the situation. I pray to God for everyone’s safety.”