Dehradun: A devastating cloudburst struck Tharali town in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district shortly after midnight on Friday, sending torrents of water and debris sweeping through the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s (SDM) residence, the Tehsil complex, and numerous homes.
Initial reports from the district disaster management office indicate at least two people are feared dead or trapped, including a young woman reportedly buried under rubble, while another person remains missing. The sudden deluge, a grim reminder of the ongoing Himalayan monsoon, caused widespread damage across Tharali Bazaar, Kedarbgarh, Radibgarh, and Chepadon areas.
Officials confirmed several vehicles were buried under debris, and roads turned into muddy ponds, cutting off access to parts of the town. “The cloudburst occurred around 1 am amidst heavy rainfall,” said the District Disaster Control Room. “Water and debris entered many buildings, including the SDM’s residence and Tehsil premises, now filled with muck.” Eyewitnesses described panic as residents fled homes in the dead of night.
Authorities declared a holiday for all schools up to Class 12 and Anganwadi centres in Tharali Tehsil for Saturday. Police and administration teams have been mobilised for rescue and relief operations. District Magistrate Dr. Sandeep Tiwari confirmed, “Rescue operations are ongoing immediately.”
District Disaster Management Officer Nand Kishore Joshi said, “A young woman is buried under debris and another is missing. Assessment of vehicle and property damage is underway.” Tharali Block Head Pravin Purohit reported three separate cloudburst incidents, including debris accumulation near the residence of Nagar Panchayat Tharali President Sunita Rawat.
SDM Pankaj Bhatt detailed challenges, noting landslide debris in Radibgarh, Sagwad, and Kotdeep, with vehicles buried and continuous rain hampering rescue. Residents have been urged to move to safer locations as authorities work round the clock to mitigate further damage and assist affected people.
