A devastating flash flood struck the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand on August 5, 2025, triggered by a cloudburst in the upper catchment area of the Kheer Ganga river. The sudden and intense downpour caused the Kheer Ganga river to overflow, sending a massive surge of water and debris through the region, particularly impacting Dharali village. The disaster has resulted in at least four fatalities, with reports indicating that around 100 people are missing.
The flash flood swept away homes, shops, and other infrastructure, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Dramatic visuals showed buildings being flattened and people running for their lives as the deluge of water and debris tore through the area. Dharali, a key stop on the route to Gangotri, a significant pilgrimage site and the source of the Ganges, suffered extensive damage, with many hotels, restaurants, and homestays being washed away. Initial reports suggest that at least 50 hotels were submerged or destroyed, and around 40-50 houses were swept away.
In response to the tragedy, Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan, who shares a personal connection with Uttarakhand from filming her debut movie 'Kedarnath' in the region, expressed her grief and solidarity with the victims. Taking to her Instagram stories, she wrote, "My heart goes out to everyone impacted by the incident in Uttarakhand. Praying for safety, strength and healing for all".
Khan also contributed to spreading awareness about relief efforts by sharing emergency contact numbers for the Uttarkashi District Emergency Operation Centre. The numbers provided were 01374-222126, 01374-222722, and 9456556431. Other Bollywood celebrities, including Sonu Sood and Bhumi Pednekar, also expressed their concern and offered support to those affected by the disaster.
Emergency teams from various agencies, including the State Police, Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), were swiftly deployed to conduct rescue and relief operations. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed that approximately 130 people stranded in affected areas had been relocated to safer zones. He also directed authorities to ensure immediate access to food, shelter, and medical assistance for those impacted. The Indian Air Force has also placed aircraft on standby to assist with rescue efforts, though poor weather conditions have hampered operations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had previously issued a warning for heavy rainfall in the region until August 10, and has continued to warn of heavy rainfall in the coming days. The state government and disaster management authorities are working to provide aid and prevent further loss, but the challenging terrain and persistent rainfall are complicating rescue efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also spoken with Chief Minister Dhami, assuring him of full central support.
