A terrifying flash flood swept through Dharali village in Uttarkashi district on Tuesday following a cloudburst in the catchment area of the Kheer Ganga river, triggering a massive mudslide and widespread devastation. The high-altitude village, located en route to Gangotri, was battered by raging waters that swept away homes, hotels, and homestays.

According to officials, at least four people have died and 10–12 others are feared trapped under the debris. Eyewitnesses say that as many as 20–25 hotels and homestays may have been washed away, raising fears that the toll could rise sharply.

Screams, collapse and panic captured on video

Chilling videos from the scene have surfaced on social media, showing torrents of muddy water and debris rushing through the village. In one clip, residents can be heard screaming, gasping for breath, and desperately calling loved ones in affected areas. A voice in one video chillingly says, "Everything is finished."

Buildings are seen crumbling under the pressure of the floodwaters as terrified locals attempt to flee. The chaos and panic have sent shockwaves across neighbouring villages as fears of further flash floods loom.

Rescue ops in full swing

Rescue operations began swiftly. An Army team from Harsil was rushed to the spot, while SDRF, NDRF, and district administration teams are carrying out search and rescue efforts on a war footing.

Uttarkashi District Magistrate Prashant Arya confirmed the initial casualties and said more updates would follow as teams reach deeper into the affected zone.

Authorities have released emergency helpline numbers for those seeking help or trying to trace missing persons.

Haridwar District Emergency Centre: 01374-222722, 7310913129, 7500737269 | Toll-Free: 1077 / 112

State Emergency Centre, Dehradun: 0135-2710334, 2710335, 8218867005, 9058441404 | Toll-Free: 1070 / 112