Heavy Rains Trigger Landslides, Injuries, and Missing Persons as Rescue Operations Intensify Across Northern India
Cloudburst Causes Havoc in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli and Rudraprayag
A cloudburst struck the Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts of Uttarakhand late Thursday night, leaving several people feared trapped under debris and many injured. The situation remains critical as rescue and relief operations continue.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed the incident via social media, stating that large-scale debris flows have blocked multiple areas, leaving families stranded. He assured that emergency teams are working round-the-clock to clear the debris and rescue affected individuals.
Key Affected Areas and Casualty Report
- In Mopata area of Dewal, Chamoli, two residents — Tara Singh and his wife — are reported missing.
- Another couple, Vikram Singh and his wife, were injured in the incident.
- A cowshed collapse in the same region has reportedly buried 15–20 animals under debris.
Previous Cloudburst in Chamoli Last Week
This disaster follows a similar cloudburst in Chamoli last week, where debris swept through:
- Tharali market
- Tharali tehsil complex
- Residential homes, the official residence of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), shops, and parked vehicles
Pilgrims Stranded in Chamba Amid Rain Havoc
In Chamba district, 7,000 to 8,000 pilgrims on the Manimahesh Yatra were stranded earlier this week due to landslides and roadblocks. Rescue teams are working to evacuate them safely.
North India Faces Extreme Weather Conditions
The cloudbursts and flash floods are part of a larger pattern of extreme weather affecting the Himalayan states, including:
Jammu and Kashmir
- All schools in Jammu region closed till August 30 due to flooding and heavy rainfall.
- Safety of students and staff remains a top priority.
Himachal Pradesh
- As per the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA):
- 524 roads blocked, including 2 national highways
- 1,230 electricity transformers disrupted
- 416 water supply schemes damaged
Indian Army Launches Large-Scale Rescue Operations
The Indian Army has deployed 12 helicopters as part of a major Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operation. These are being used to:
- Airlift stranded individuals
- Deliver food and medical aid
- Support operations across Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab
Situation Remains Critical as Monsoon Rages On
Uttarakhand and surrounding states continue to face the devastating impact of heavy monsoon rains, cloudbursts, and flash floods. Authorities have urged citizens to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Follow advisories
- Remain in touch with local administration for assistance and safety updates
