In a decisive move following a devastating cloudburst in the Chamoli district, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to immediately release a compensation package for the victims, ensuring swift financial assistance and rehabilitation. During a high-level review meeting at the Disaster Operations Centre in Dehradun on August 23rd (Saturday) night, the Chief Minister instructed the District Magistrate of Chamoli to immediately issue a relief amount of ₹5 lakh to the families whose homes were completely damaged in the calamity. He also ordered the immediate release of a similar sum of ₹5 lakh to the next of kin of those who lost their lives, underscoring the government’s commitment to standing with the people of Uttarakhand in their hour of need.
The meeting focused on the rescue and relief operations in Tharali, where a cloudburst and the subsequent flash flood on August 22nd caused immense damage. Dhami praised the District Magistrate of Chamoli, Dr Sandeep Tiwari, for his prompt response and effective management of the crisis. He also commended the coordinated efforts of the SDRF and NDRF teams, whose swift actions prevented a larger-scale tragedy. This recognition of on-the-ground performance is a key part of the Chief Minister’s strategy to encourage an efficient and responsive bureaucracy during emergencies. The Chief Minister stated that similar proactive measures should be replicated in all disaster-affected regions of the state to ensure a cohesive and effective response.
In a forward-thinking directive, the Chief Minister has ordered the formation of an expert committee to study the pattern of recent disasters in the state. The committee, which will include scientists and specialists from various prestigious agencies, will analyse the recurring calamities in Tharali, Saeji (Pauri), and Dhadali to prepare a comprehensive report. This move is aimed at developing a long-term, scientific approach to disaster mitigation, moving beyond a reactive stance to a more proactive and preventative one. The study is expected to provide critical insights into the geological and environmental factors contributing to these events, which will inform future policy and infrastructure development.
The Chief Minister also addressed the issue of the artificial lake that had formed on the Yamuna River near Syana Chatti in Uttarkashi. He ordered officials to make arrangements for the immediate and safe draining of the water to prevent a potential flash flood in the downstream areas. On the local level, Dhami stressed that all affected individuals in Tharali who have been rendered homeless should be provided with excellent temporary arrangements, and that rehabilitation work should begin without delay. He also issued explicit instructions to ensure that all essential services, including electricity, water, and road networks, are restored as quickly as possible. The Chief Minister emphasised that the quality of relief materials, including rations, must be carefully checked to ensure they are of a high standard.
Given the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) Orange Alert for the next two days, the Chief Minister instructed all District Magistrates across the state to remain on high alert. He directed them to ensure that all necessary disaster management equipment and materials are positioned in sensitive locations to facilitate a rapid response to any potential emergencies. This proactive measure aims to minimise potential loss of life and property as the monsoon season continues to batter the fragile Himalayan region.
