Uttarkashi Cloudburst 2025: On Tuesday, such a fierce form of nature was seen in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, which put people in panic. Within just two and a half hours, incidents of cloudburst occurred at three different places, due to which life was disrupted. These disasters not only destroyed many houses and shops, but the news of dozens of people missing created panic in the entire area.
Cloud burst first in Dharali, Kheerganga river in spate
On Tuesday afternoon at around 1 pm, the weather suddenly changed and a cloud burst in the Dharali valley of Uttarkashi. According to the report of the Ministry of Water Power, this incident brought heavy debris and water flow in the Kheerganga river, due to which the river was in spate. About 15 residential houses located on the riverbank were completely destroyed, while 6 to 7 shops have also suffered severe damage. According to the administration, many people are missing since this disaster, and the search operation has been intensified.
Suki Top witnessed the second disaster
People had not yet recovered from the devastation of Dharali when two hours later, i.e., around 3 o’clock, the second cloud burst incident occurred near Suki Top located between Harshil and Gangani. This area is considered a sensitive area of Uttarkashi, and the people living there are already alert to the danger of landslides and floods. The loss of life and property in this second disaster is currently being assessed, but initial reports indicate heavy damage.
Third blast near Harshil Army Camp, helipad submerged
The third link of the natural tragedy came to the fore at around 3:30 pm, when a cloud burst in the Tel Gad area near Harshil Army Camp. After this, a flood-like situation arose in the entire area. The impact of this incident was so intense that the flow of the Bhagirathi River stopped for some time, and a lake was formed, due to which the helipad of Harshil was completely submerged.
Weather warning and rescue operation continue
After these three incidents, the administration has intensified emergency relief work in Uttarkashi. SDRF, police, and army teams have been sent to the spot. The help of the dog squad and drones is being taken to search for the missing people. Along with this, a precautionary alert has also been issued in the surrounding rural areas.
The Meteorological Department has warned of more heavy rains in the coming 48 hours, due to which the danger is not over yet. The local administration is constantly monitoring and appealing to the people to stay in safe places and avoid rumors.
Another warning: The Climate crisis is increasing continuously in the Himalayan region
Incidents like Uttarkashi clearly show that the impact of climate change is being seen rapidly in the Himalayan region. Changes in rainfall patterns, increasing incidents of cloudburst and flash floods are not only causing loss of life and property, but are also putting the mountain lifestyle in danger.
Experts believe that if sustainable development and environmentally sensitive plans are not made in time, such disasters will keep shaking us again and again.