Flash Flood in Uttarakhand: Rescue Operations Underway as Dozens Remain Missing
A devastating flash flood struck the town of Dharali in Uttarakhand, India, on Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The disaster has claimed at least four lives, with around 100 people still missing, including 11 soldiers, according to official sources.
Massive Rescue Efforts in Progress
In response, the Indian Army has launched an extensive rescue and recovery operation. Search efforts have been intensified with the deployment of sniffer dogs, drones, earth-moving equipment, and additional military units. Military helicopters are also delivering essential supplies and medical aid, and working to evacuate stranded residents.
A statement from the army confirmed, “Additional army columns, along with army tracker dogs, drones, logistic drones, and earthmoving equipment have been moved to hasten the efforts.”
Flood Triggered by Intense Rainfall
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attributed the disaster to a sudden cloudburst, a powerful weather phenomenon involving extreme rainfall in a short span of time. “Rescue teams are working on a war footing,” he said.
Dramatic footage aired on Indian news channels showed torrents of muddy water sweeping through the narrow mountain valley, engulfing roads, homes, and even multi-storey buildings. Eyewitness videos captured moments of panic as people tried to flee the oncoming surge.
Region on Alert as Rivers Overflow
Authorities have warned that all major rivers in Uttarakhand are currently flowing above the danger mark, following torrential monsoon rains that continue to lash the region. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts and urged residents in vulnerable areas to move to safer ground.
The aftermath of the flood has left parts of Dharali buried under layers of thick mud, estimated to be as deep as 15 meters in some places. Rescue teams are working under difficult conditions to locate missing persons and clear debris.
Experts Warn of Climate Change Link
Natural disasters like flash floods and landslides are not uncommon during the June–September monsoon season, but climate experts are raising concerns over their increasing frequency and severity.
Hydrologist Manish Shrestha from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) explained that the region received 270 mm of rain in just 24 hours—an event he described as “extreme.” He emphasized that rainfall in mountainous areas can have more concentrated impacts compared to flatlands.
“Such intense rainfall events are becoming more common and could be linked to climate change,” Shrestha added.
A Growing Global Concern
The United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization has previously warned that intense floods and droughts are signs of increasing climate instability, with the global water cycle becoming more erratic.
As rescue operations continue in Uttarakhand, authorities urge the public to stay informed and take all necessary precautions during the ongoing monsoon season. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges posed by climate change and unplanned urban development in fragile ecosystems.
