Uttarakhand floods: Affected area remains cut off as rescue efforts enter 3rd day
Dehradun, August 7 — Torrential rains continue to batter Uttarakhand, cutting off several flood-hit areas for the third day in a row. Flooded rivers, landslides, and damaged roads have stranded hundreds of residents. They lack food, clean water, and medical help.
Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Pithoragarh districts faced the worst damage. Heavy rains triggered flash floods and landslides. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) officials report at least 16 deaths and dozens still missing.
Villages Cut Off, Communication Lost
Several villages remain isolated. Roads washed away by floods block ground access. Mobile networks and internet lines also failed, making it hard to gauge the full damage.
Officials say around 30 villages have no road or phone connection. The Indian Air Force and state teams planned helicopter rescues, but bad weather delayed flights.
“Many families lack food and power. We try to drop ration kits by helicopter, but wind and rain hinder us,” said Rohit Thapliyal of the SDRF.
Evacuations and Relief Camps
Authorities evacuated over 2,000 people to safer locations. Relief camps opened in schools, panchayat halls, and guest houses. In Chamoli, officials moved nearly 600 residents after the Alaknanda river overflowed, damaging homes.
Aid workers stocked relief camps with water, dry food, blankets, and medicines. However, ongoing rain disrupts transport and distribution.
“We need more personnel on the ground and better weather to expand efforts,” said an NDRF volunteer.
Infrastructure Damage and Continuing Risks
Floods caused widespread damage. The Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway (NH-58), vital for locals and pilgrims, suffered multiple cave-ins and remains closed. Other routes connecting Pithoragarh and Munsiyari also face blockages.
Several towns lost power due to flooded transformers and broken electrical lines. Authorities urge residents in risk zones to move to safer areas. They expect more landslides with heavy rains forecasted.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. Rivers like the Mandakini, Pindar, and Kali are above danger levels, raising flood concerns.
Government Actions and Aid
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami surveyed the damage from the air and held emergency meetings. He promised quick relief and rehabilitation.
“The situation is serious, but we have mobilized all resources. More NDRF and Army teams are en route, and we coordinate with the Centre,” Dhami said.
The state government announced ₹4 lakh in compensation for families of the deceased. They also promised aid for property and livestock losses.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and asked the Home Ministry to monitor the situation closely. A central team may soon assess damage and recommend measures.
Climate Change and Repeated Flooding
Experts warn such disasters are becoming more common in Uttarakhand. Deforestation, unplanned construction, and melting glaciers increase flood risks.
“Uttarakhand faced five major floods in 12 years. We must shift to sustainable development to prevent future tragedies,” said Dr. Ritu Joshi of the Centre for Himalayan Studies.
The 2013 floods, called the Himalayan tsunami, killed over 5,000 people. Many fear current floods could reach similar destruction if rains continue.
Appeals for Help
NGOs and civil groups launched drives for donations. People urgently need tarps, clean water, dry food, sanitary supplies, and medicines.
Citizens across India are encouraged to donate to verified relief funds to help those affected.
As rescue efforts enter their third day, the people of Uttarakhand remain hopeful. With government support and public aid, recovery is possible — but the rain and danger persist. of letting up.
