Numerous individuals are feared to be trapped as a cloudburst causes flash floods in India

Rescue teams are searching for numerous individuals who are believed to be trapped following a significant cloudburst that caused intense rainfall and flash floods in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand.

Teams, comprising both military and paramilitary forces, have arrived in Dharali village located in the Uttarkashi district, which is thought to have suffered significantly from the floods. Dramatic footage of the calamity depicts a massive wave of water surging through the region, demolishing structures in its wake. Dharali, a popular tourist destination, is home to numerous hotels, resorts, and restaurants.

A cloudburst refers to an intense, sudden rainfall over a limited area within a brief timeframe, frequently resulting in flash floods. This event occurred at approximately 13:30 Indian time (08:00 GMT) when a substantial volume of water fell, causing the Kheerganga river to swell and sending torrents of muddy water cascading down the hilly landscape, inundating roads, buildings, and shops in Dharali.

Witnesses from a nearby village who recorded the striking footage of the muddy water flowing through the streets could be heard screaming, blowing whistles, and urging others to "run, run," but reported that the abrupt surge left little time for people to escape. They expressed concerns that many individuals might be trapped beneath the rubble. Additionally, the ancient Kalpkedar temple is also submerged in the sludge and is believed to have sustained damage, they noted. The debris from Kheerganga has obstructed a section of the region's primary river, Bhagirathi [which transforms into India's sacred river, the Ganges, as it flows downstream], and has formed an artificial lake, inundating extensive areas of land, including a government helipad.

Concerns are escalating regarding the potential dangers posed to downstream towns and villages if the water is not drained promptly. Army personnel who have recently arrived at the scene are issuing warnings for individuals to maintain a safe distance from the water. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his "condolences to the individuals impacted by the tragedy" through a post on the social media platform X.

"I am praying for the recovery of all victims... Relief and rescue teams are tirelessly working to provide assistance. Every effort is being made to support the affected individuals," he stated. Previously, Prashant Arya, the highest-ranking official in Uttarkashi, mentioned that communication has been inconsistent due to inadequate connectivity in the region. "Given that this is a densely populated area with numerous restaurants and hotels, we have sent rescue teams to the location," he remarked.

Dharali is situated 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) from Harsil, a well-known tourist spot that also hosts a significant Indian army base. Additionally, a camp for the paramilitary Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is located nearby. Personnel from both forces have arrived at the disaster site, and officials indicated that they are currently evaluating the situation. However, the rescue operations are anticipated to progress slowly due to the ongoing heavy rainfall in the area. Reports indicate that some of the injured are receiving medical care at the army camp in Harsil.