At least four people have died and many others are feared missing after devastating flash floods struck the Kheer Ganga river area in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, on Tuesday afternoon, August 5, 2025. The floods, triggered by relentless rainfall and a possible cloudburst, tore through the town of Dharali — a popular tourist destination located about 8,600 feet above sea level.
Eyewitness videos show massive waves of water crashing into the town, sweeping away everything in sight — people, vehicles, homes, and hotels. Locals were heard screaming warnings, urging others to run for safety as the floodwaters turned the town’s market into a muddy wasteland within minutes.
“The market was gone in seconds,” said one local resident. “People were just running for their lives. We’ve never seen anything like this.”
According to district officials, around 25 buildings — including hotels, guest houses, and private homes — have been completely destroyed. Initial estimates suggest that nearly 60 to 70 people are still missing or trapped under the debris.
The tragedy has prompted an urgent response from top political leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh have spoken to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and assured full support from the central government.
Chief Minister Dhami said, “We are doing everything we can. Rescue teams are working on the ground, and the Army has been called in. Our priority is to find the missing and ensure the safety of all residents.”
Search and rescue operations are currently underway, but efforts have been hampered by continuous rain and difficult terrain. The government has appealed to residents and tourists to stay away from vulnerable areas and to follow official safety guidelines.
