Chamoli in Uttarakhand hit by flash floods: What travellers need to know

Heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district has led to flash floods and landslides which has caused significant damage and disruption in the region. The conditions are especially bad in and around the region of Tharali.

Government warning for travellers

As per recent update, several vehicles, including cars and bikes, are buried under debris, and many roads have been blocked, making travelling impossible in the region. The BRO (Border Roads Organisation) is actively working to resolve this issue, clear the rubble and restore connectivity. Keeping the current situation in mind, the government officials have alerted the citizens, telling them to take precautionary measures.

Russian tourists rescued

In a related incident, A Russian tourist was rescued after falling off a mountain. This dangerous incident occurred on Saturday evening near the Gaura area of the Chamoli district. Another tourist, aged 55, named Sklyarov Boris, tumbled down from a mountain while appreciating the beauty of Chamoli with her friend Smileyenko Igor.

The two were walking from Gwaldam to Garud near Amsyari Village. The incident occurred when Boris lost her balance and fell into a field, getting severely injured. They were discovered by local women, while they were returning home after collecting grass. The local women saw Boris hurt and lying on the ground injured. The ladies offered help. Despite the language barrier, the locals helped her.

The village women lifted the hurt traveller and put her on a stretcher and took her to the hospital. This also highlights the community’s spirit amidst these challenges. They travelled to Garud with a local man named Pankaj Khushwha. The local police SHO Pratap Singh Nagarkoti of Bajinath visited the spot and confirmed that Boris had trivial injuries and would recover swiftly.

However, this incident highlights the danger of travelling in mountainous areas, especially in flood-prone areas. This story stands as a testament to human kindness and has received a lot of praise online, highlighting that cultural contrast will never overpower humanity.

About Chamoli

Set in the heart of Uttarakhand, Chamoli is a scenic hill station, surrounded by the Tibet-region. The place is also noted as the ‘Abode of Gods’ because of numerous sites of religious importance. Chamoli also has a long history associated with its name. It is the birthplace of the Chipko-movement that attracts nature lovers. The place is famous for its scenic views, floristic diversity and climatic variations. The temperature in Chamoli right now is ranging from (minimum) 14 degrees to (maximum) 26 degrees.