A terrifying flash flood in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, has resulted in houses being swallowed by raging waters, triggering panic and fear among residents. The devastating event, stemming from a cloudburst and intense rainfall, caused widespread destruction and disruption.
On June 30, 2025, a cloudburst triggered a flash flood that swept through a resort construction site at Silai Bend on the Barkot–Yamunotri highway in Uttarkashi around 2 am. Initial reports indicate that at least two bodies have been recovered, while seven people remain missing. Twenty workers managed to escape to safety. The intense rainfall led to the collapse of a tin-and-plywood shelter housing 29 workers engaged in hotel and road construction. The recovered bodies were identified as Duje Lal, 55, from Pilibhit in Uttar Pradesh, and Kewal Bisht, 43, from Bardia in Nepal.
Rescue operations were launched immediately, involving teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), local police, and administration. However, the operations were temporarily suspended due to poor visibility and risky terrain. Search operations resumed the next morning. Uttarkashi district magistrate Prashant Arya stated that the area was not classified as landslide-prone.
The flash floods and subsequent landslides have severely impacted infrastructure, blocking the Yamunotri Highway at multiple points. A 10–30 metre stretch of the highway was completely washed out near the camp. The Char Dham Yatra, a significant pilgrimage in the region, was temporarily suspended for 24 hours due to the incident, leaving approximately 400-500 pilgrims stranded. Authorities ensured that the stranded pilgrims were provided with accommodation in hotels and other establishments.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall across the state, and all districts remain on high alert. Rivers in Uttarakhand are flowing above the danger mark. State officials have urged travelers to exercise caution as the monsoon intensifies.
Uttarkashi has a history of flash flood events, with a particularly devastating incident in 2012 that resulted in 31 deaths and 40 missing persons. These events highlight the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters, emphasizing the need for improved disaster preparedness and management strategies.
