Kinnaur: A day a tragedy in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi, a cloudburst was also reported in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur, leading to a flood-like situation on Wednesday. Due to the inclement weather conditions, several sections of the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra route were damaged, reported News 18.
The pilgrimage has reportedly been suspended from today, August 6. Scary visuals of water gushing downhill and cutting through cliffs surfaced online. Several pilgrims were stranded at the Kinnaur-Kailash Yatra route.
Visuals From The Spot:
The stranded pilgrims will be evacuated via the Purvani route, officials said, as reported by News18. Bridges over the Tanglippi and Kangrang streams have also reportedly been washed away due to floods.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a very heavy rainfall warning in the next 12 hours in several districts of Himachal Pradesh, including Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, Lahaul-Spiti and Mandi.
Uttarakhand Cloudburst:
Flash floods triggered by a cloudburst in Uttarkashi's Dharali wreaked havoc in the region. At least four people reportedly lost lives, while around 60 others are missing. The cloudburst struck the Kheer Ganga river, destroyed several homes, hotels, and even a centuries-old temple. As per reports, rescue efforts are facing mounting challenges due to road blockages and the continuous rainfall.
District officials estimated that 60 to 70 people may still be trapped under the debris. Due to heavy rain, landslides and rising river levels, the Kedarnath Yatra has also been suspended until further notice.
The Indian Army, along with the State Disaster Responce Force (SDRF) are involved in rescue operations. Meanwhile, Indian Army officials confirmed that 8 to 10 soldiers are missing from a camp in the lower Harsil region.
