Report by Swati
Chamoli Uttrakhand 11 August
Massive Cloudburst Triggers Flash Floods in Chamoli, Bridge Washed Away; BRO Employee Missing Chamoli, Uttarakhand: A massive cloudburst in Chamoli district on Monday afternoon triggered severe flash floods, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and disrupting connectivity in the strategically important Niti Valley region along the India-China border.The sudden deluge caused a powerful surge of water and debris in the Tamak Nala, washing away a newly constructed iron Bailey bridge operated by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). The bridge was a crucial link on the Malari National Highway. 17 Border Villages Cut Off With the bridge completely washed away, road connectivity to nearly 17 border villages has been severely disrupted. The damage has raised concerns over the movement of essential supplies and access to remote settlements in the border region.Several BRO vehicles were also swept away by the raging floodwaters. According to the information available, at least three vehicles, including a Scorpio and heavy earth-moving machinery, were carried into the river.A BRO employee is reportedly missing after being swept away in the flash flood.SDRF, NDRF Teams Launch Search Operation Following the incident, teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police have been mobilised for search and rescue operations. Difficult weather conditions and poor visibility are posing challenges to the ongoing operation. CM Dhami Directs Immediate Relief Measures Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed district authorities to expedite relief and rescue operations and ensure that essential commodities continue to reach the affected and isolated border villages.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued severe weather warnings for several districts of Uttarakhand. Residents living in low-lying and landslide-prone areas have been advised to remain alert and move to safer locations if required.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as rescue teams continue efforts to locate the missing BRO employee and assess the full extent of the damage.
