Death Toll Climbs, Dozens Missing
On August 5, 2025, a catastrophic cloudburst struck Dharali village in Uttarkashi Cloudburst , unleashing devastating flash floods that swept through residential areas, markets, and hotels.
Uttarkashi Cloudburst Eyewitnesses described the floodwaters as “walls of mud and debris” engulfing everything in minutes.
Rescue Ops in Overdrive: Army, NDRF, SDRF at War-Footing
Around 150 troops led by Colonel Harshvardhan of the 14 RAJRIF are spearheading the rescue mission. Forces from NDRF, SDRF, and ITBP have joined in, deploying heavy machinery, sniffer dogs, and helicopters. The Indian Air Force has flown in Chinook and Cheetah helicopters to assist with aerial surveillance and evacuation.
Government Responds Swiftly: CM Dhami and PM Modi Take Charge
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial survey and chaired high-level emergency meetings.
PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have pledged full central assistance in Uttarkashi Cloudburst.
Schools Shut, Roads Blocked, Train Services Suspended
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Red Alert for Uttarkashi Cloudburst and surrounding regions. As a precaution, schools and Anganwadi centers in nine districts including Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, and Almora have been shut down.
Landslides have cut off road connectivity to Gangotri, and Haridwar–Dehradun trains remain suspended. Authorities are using JCB machines to clear roads and restore supply chains.
Cloudburst Explained: A Monsoon Monster
Uttarkashi Cloudburst saw over 210 mm of rainfall within 24 hours, overwhelming its fragile ecosystem. Experts link such extreme events to climate change, urban encroachments, and reduced vegetation in hill zones.
What Happens Next?
- The rescue ops continue under extreme weather alerts.
- The Uttarakhand government has announced ₹10 crore emergency aid for the affected.
- Environmental activists are calling for a review of unchecked construction and deforestation in fragile Himalayan terrain.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Cloudburst | August 5, 2025 |
| Worst-hit Area | Dharali village, Uttarkashi |
| Deaths Confirmed | 4 (and rising) |
| People Missing | Dozens, including 11 Army personnel |
| Rescued | Over 130 |
| Properties Destroyed | 20+ hotels/guesthouses, market area |
| Key Forces Involved | Army, NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, IAF |
| Current Alert Status | Red alert in multiple districts |
| Government Aid | ₹10 crore announced |
| Disrupted Services | Roads, schools, trains |
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Author: Team BTP
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