Flash flood struck the Dharali village in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district after a landslide, wiping out houses on Tuesday, officials said.
Horrific videos of people screaming surfaced online, as strong
waves of floodwater swallowed houses.
The flood caused massive damage to properties. There are also reports of people trapped under debris. Another video showed raging water swallowing houses and toppling buildings. Residents were heard screaming out of fear for their safety as horrific scenes unfolded in front of their eyes.
Rescue Operation Launched
SDRF rescue teams have been rushed to the spot. The Uttarakhand government has also roped in the Indian Army for the rescue operation.
“Rising water levels in the Khir Ganga river have reportedly caused damage in the Dharali market area. Army units from Harsil, along with police and SDRF teams, have been dispatched to Bhatwari,” officials said.
Speaking with CNN-News18, state Minister Saurabh Bahuguna expressed sorrow over the horrific incident and said that the government’s priority is to save the lives of the people possibly stuck in the debris.
“It’s a very sad incident. The rescue operation has been launched. Our priority is to save the lives of the people stuck there. NDRF, SDRF are on their way to the location.
Eyewitness Account
According to an eyewitness, Suresh Semwal, several hotels were washed away in the flash flood.
“The situation is very bad here. Many hotels have been washed away in the flash flood. Around 50 hotels in this area are totally submerged. Several villagers are also trapped,” he told CNN-News18.
