A deadly flash flood tore through Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand on August 5, 2025, after a cloudburst struck the upper catchment of the Kheer Ganga river. At least four lives have been lost so far, and over 100 people remain missing, with fears that many are trapped beneath collapsed buildings and debris.
Disaster Unfolds in Minutes
Around 1:30 PM, the sudden cloudburst triggered a powerful surge of water, mud, and debris that ravaged the Dharali area and nearby Sukhi Top. Entire homes, shops, hotels, and roads were swept away in a matter of minutes, catching residents and tourists completely off guard.
Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes — of buildings collapsing, markets disappearing under the floods, and people running for higher ground. The destruction also disrupted the Gangotri pilgrimage route, stranding many devotees and cutting off access to key parts of the region.
Massive Rescue Effort Underway
In the aftermath, the Indian Army, ITBP, NDRF, SDRF, and local police mounted a large-scale rescue mission, managing to save more than 130 people. Military helicopters are on standby, ready to deliver aid and evacuate the stranded as soon as weather permits.
Among the missing are nine soldiers from the Indian Army’s Harsil camp. While some have been rescued, search operations continue under difficult conditions. Villages have also reported livestock losses, adding to the overall devastation.
Leadership on Ground, Relief on the Way
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the disaster site and assured affected families that every resource would be mobilized for rescue and relief. Restoring electricity, road access, and communication is being treated as a top priority, especially with more rain predicted in the coming days.
At the national level, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep concern and pledged full central support to the state.
Red Alerts and Ongoing Risk
With heavy rainfall expected until at least August 10, the threat of further cloudbursts, landslides, and flooding remains high. Authorities have issued red alerts for vulnerable regions and are urging residents to stay away from rivers and slopes.
The damage assessment is still ongoing, but it’s already clear that countless families have lost their homes and livelihoods overnight. Relief camps are being set up, and emergency helplines are open to support those in need.
As Uttarakhand continues to battle the forces of nature, the resilience of its people and the urgency of long-term disaster preparedness are once again in sharp focus.
