(Image source from: Ndtv.com)

In a sorrowful development, a strong cloudburst caused a terrible flash flood in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district on Tuesday, resulting in the loss of at least four lives and causing around 50 people to be unaccounted for. The natural calamity that hit the area surrounding the Kheer Ganga river brought an unexpected rush of water to Tharali village, resulting in significant destruction. Alarming images shared online showed the frightening moment when torrents of water rushed down a slope, destroying homes and leaving local residents in fear. Videos from onlookers captured people yelling as floodwaters overwhelmed sections of the village. Officials have advised the community to remain alert. “Considering this situation, everyone should stay a safe distance from the river. Make sure that you, the children, and animals are at a safe distance,” Uttarkashi Police recommended in a public warning along with photos of the damage.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami shared his sadness and confirmed that rescue operations were in progress. “The reports of severe damage caused by a cloudburst in the Dharali (Uttarkashi) area are very upsetting and tragic. SDRF, NDRF, and local authorities are working on relief and rescue efforts. I am continuously communicating with officials and keeping track of the situation,” he stated in a post on social media. Uttarakhand has been facing ongoing rainfall this season. On Monday, rainfall-related events in Rudraprayag district led to two more fatalities, as debris trapped shops under rocks. Likewise, in Udham Singh Nagar, rising waters from the Levda river and nearby streams have disrupted life in several villages, including Chakarpur, Lakhanpur, and Barhaini. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘red’ alert for very heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand for today and a ‘yellow’ alert for the week, warning of possible further weather-related dangers approaching.