Entire settlement, including homes and hotels, either swept away or buried under rubble
Shocking before-and-after photographs emerging from Dharali village in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand have revealed the full extent of destruction caused by a powerful flash flood on Tuesday. The deluge, which turned the tranquil village near Gangotri into a disaster zone, was initially believed to be the result of a cloudburst. However, fresh analyses from experts examining satellite images and weather patterns suggest the likely cause was a glacier collapse or glacial lake outburst.
The images show that almost the entire village — comprising numerous homes, hotels, eateries, and homestays — has either been washed away or buried under thick layers of mud and debris. The stream that surged through the village left behind a trail of wreckage, swallowing buildings in its path.
As rescue efforts continue, scientists are investigating whether the flash flood was triggered by an avalanche, a glacier burst, or a sudden breach in a glacial lake further upstream.
Indian Army Swiftly Responds
In response to the landslide near Dharali, the Indian Army quickly mobilised 150 personnel to conduct rescue operations. So far, 15 to 20 people have been safely evacuated from the affected zone. Those injured are being treated at the Army’s medical facility in Harshil.
Search and rescue operations are still underway, with all available resources being utilised to trace and assist any people who might still be trapped or stranded in the debris.
