Cloudburst hits Uttarakhands Chamoli, shops and vehicles damaged; several casualties feared
Multiple vehicles parked at the tehsil complex were buried under the rubble, while the forceful flow of water and debris turned the town’s streets into temporary water bodies.
PTC News Desk: A cloudburst hit Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district late Friday night, causing widespread destruction in the area. The Tharali market, Kotdeep, and the Tharali tehsil complex were among the worst affected, with massive debris sweeping through houses, the SDM’s residence, and several other structures.
Multiple vehicles parked at the tehsil complex were buried under the rubble, while the forceful flow of water and debris turned the town’s streets into temporary water bodies. In nearby Sagwara village, a young girl is reportedly feared dead after being trapped under debris, sparking panic in the locality. Residents rushed out of their homes as rescue and relief efforts were launched.
Some shops in Chepdaon market were also damaged by falling debris, and one person has been reported missing, further intensifying the emergency.
Expressing concern over the tragedy, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said he is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant touch with officials overseeing the rescue efforts. In a post on X, he wrote: “Late last night, a tragic report of a cloudburst was received in the Tharali area of Chamoli district. The district administration, SDRF, and police have reached the spot and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. In this regard, I am in constant contact with the local administration and am personally closely monitoring the situation. I pray to God for everyone's safety.”