PM Modi Mourns Uttarkashi Cloudburst Tragedy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences for the lives lost in a devastating cloudburst that triggered flash floods in Dharali, Uttarkashi, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. The disaster, which struck the high-altitude village en route to Gangotri, claimed at least four lives, with over 50 people feared missing and numerous homes, hotels, and homestays swept away by raging waters from the Kheer Ganga river catchment area.

In a post on X, Modi stated, “I express my condolences to the people affected by this tragedy in Dharali, Uttarkashi. I also pray for the well-being of all the victims. I have spoken to Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami ji and obtained information about the situation.” He assured that relief and rescue operations, involving the Indian Army, NDRF, SDRF, and ITBP, are underway with full commitment. “No stone is being left unturned in providing assistance to the people,” he added.

The cloudburst, occurring around 1:45 p.m., caused a massive mudslide and flash floods, devastating Dharali, a key stopover for Gangotri pilgrims. Local reports indicate 20-25 hotels and homestays may have been destroyed, with 10-12 people potentially trapped under debris. A second cloudburst at Sukhi Top, 16 km away, heightened concerns, prompting authorities to issue safety advisories and block the Badrinath National Highway due to debris.

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Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, in constant contact with senior officials, described the situation as “extremely sad and painful,” confirming that rescue teams are working on a war footing. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also assured central support, deploying three ITBP and four NDRF teams to the site. The Indian Army’s Ibex Brigade, stationed at Harsil, evacuated 15-20 individuals and provided medical care.

The tragedy, compounded by heavy monsoon rains across Uttarakhand, has highlighted the region’s vulnerability to climate-driven disasters. With rivers like the Ganga in Haridwar flowing above danger levels, the government faces mounting pressure to enhance disaster preparedness. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed condolences, urging swift relief efforts.

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