Uttarkashi, August 6, 2025 — A devastating flash flood triggered by a cloudburst in Uttarkashi district has left approximately 200 people trapped under debris in Dharali village, as rescue teams race against time to reach survivors amid challenging terrain and inclement weather.
The disaster struck on Tuesday afternoon near the Kheerganga river catchment area, unleashing torrential rains exceeding 210 mm in 24 hours. A massive wall of debris—estimated at 25 feet high—engulfed homes, vehicles, and infrastructure, flattening large portions of the village and rendering key roads impassable.
So far, five fatalities have been confirmed, including the recovery of one body on Wednesday. Nine Army personnel remain missing, and a group of 28 tourists from Kerala is also unaccounted for. Rescue efforts have successfully evacuated over 250 individuals from Dharali and surrounding areas, with operations led by the Indian Army, ITBP, SDRF, NDRF, and local authorities.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial survey and assured that all possible resources are being deployed. “Rescue operations are hampered owing to closed roads and a damaged bridge,” he stated, adding that helicopters and heavy machinery are on standby, pending weather clearance.
Efforts are underway to construct a temporary bridge and clear arterial routes blocked by landslides. Food packets and medical teams have been mobilized, while disaster control centers in Dehradun remain on high alert.
The flash flood has also caused the Ganga River in Haridwar to swell dangerously close to warning levels, prompting further monitoring by the Irrigation Department.
As Uttarkashi reels from the aftermath, authorities continue to prioritize rescue and relief, with hopes pinned on improving weather conditions to accelerate recovery.
