Uttarakhand Glacier Burst: 26 Dead, Rescue Ops Underway in Tunnel
Catch all live updates of the Uttarakhand glacier break here.
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At least 26 people have been confirmed dead and close to 200 are reported to be missing after a ‘glacier break’ triggered flash floods in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on Sunday, 7 February.
More than 30 people are trapped in one of the tunnels that were hit by the floods. “A joint team of NDRF, SDRF and the army is conducting a rescue operation. The team has reached the 130-metre mark in the Tapovan tunnel. It may take 2-3 hours to reach the T-point. Efforts are underway to safely rescue those who are stuck in the tunnel,” Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat was quoted as saying by ANI.
Rawat visited Chamoli district on Monday to assess the situation post the disaster. Speaking to the media earlier, he gave assurance of the rescue work and said that a rapid supply of machines and other infrastructure is constantly coming in.
VIDEO EDITOR: SANDEEP SINGH
- At least 12 people who were trapped in a tunnel after it was blocked, following the breach, were rescued by the ITBP
- Around 13 villages have been cut off after a bridge collapsed due to the ‘glacier burst’. Forces are providing assistance to these villages
- The breach had triggered massive flooding along Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers
- PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah took stock of the rescue and relief operations that are underway
- Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat has asked those stuck in affected areas or those in need of help to call on 1070 or 9557444486
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150 Labourers Mising
About 150 labourers working in the power project are missing, following the massive flood in Uttarakhand's Dhauli Ganga river, reported PTI, citing officials.
ITBP Personnel Deployed for Rescue Operations
Hundreds of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel have been deployed to rescue and evacuate people living in villages on the bank of Dhauliganga river, they have also been directed to deal with any situation that may arise.
Home Minister Shah Takes Stock of the Situation
Home Minister Amit Shah has said that he has spoken to the Uttarakhand CM, DG ITBP and DG NDRF.
“All concerned officers are working on a war footing to secure the people,” the Home Minister said, informing that the NDRF teams have left for rescue operations and that every possible help will be provided.
Monitoring the Situation in Uttarakhand: PM Modi
Indian Army Deploys Choppers & Troops, 600 Personnel Move to Affected Areas
Indian Army has deployed choppers and troops to support the Uttarakhand government and the NDRF, to tackle the flood, reported ANI, citing the army. Military station near Rishikesh is actively involved in coordination of rescue and relief operations with local administration.
According to ANI, six columns (around 600 personnel) of the Indian Army is moving towards the flood-affected areas.
Indian Air Force Personnel Also Move to the Spot
India Air Force (IAF) personnel are also reaching the spot from the Hindon airbase.
Rahul Gandhi Urges Cong Workers to Help in Rescue Operations
Taking to Twitter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged the state government and Congress workers to help the people with the rescue operations.
Uttarakhand CM Shares Helpline Numbers
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has asked those stuck in affected areas or those in need of help to call on: 1070 or 9557444486.
50-100 People Missing, Two Bodies Recovered, Some Injured Rescued: Uttarakhand DGP
Uttarakhand DGP Ashok Kumar said that about 50-100 people are missing, two bodies have been recovered, and some people injured in the flood have also been rescued, reports PTI.
Further, the DGP reportedly said the situation is under control. However, the power project at Tapovan-Reni has been swept away completely.
Delhi Govt Ready to Provide Help: CM Kejriwal
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal also took to Twitter to say that the Delhi government is ready to provide all help to the people of Uttarakhand in this difficult time.
ITBP Personnel Dig Open Tappovan Tunnel as Many Reported Trapped
ITBP personnel are digging to open Tapovan Tunnel, which is completely blocked due to debris. Many have been reported to be trapped inside.
ITBP has further informed that three teams are on a rescue mission.
“150 men feared missing, three bodies recovered,” according to ITBP spokesperson.
Uttarakhand CM Rawat Reaches Chamoli
Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat has reached near Reni village in Tapovan area of Chamoli district. He is presently taking stock of the situation, according to ANI.
Indian Army Deploys Choppers and Soldiers to Help Uttarakhand Govt
The Indian Army has deployed choppers and soldiers to help the Uttarakhand government and the NDRF, according to sources.
The military station near Rishikesh is coordinating the rescue and relief operation. The situation is also being monitored by the army headquarters. About 600 army personnel are being sent to flood-affected areas.
Special Focus on Rescuing Workers Trapped in Tunnels: CM Rawat
Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Rawat has further tweeted that it is evident from the condition of water flow at Karnaprayag that the possibility of flooding is very less.
Rawat further said: “Our special focus is on rescuing the workers trapped in the tunnels and we are making all efforts. All necessary efforts have been made to deal with any problem.”
Uttarakhand Police Trying to Evacuate 16 Stuck Inside Tapovan Dam
Uttarakhand police is trying to evacuate 16 people who are stuck inside Tapovan Dam.
9-10 Dead Bodies Recovered From the River: ITBP DG
Speaking to news agency ANI, ITBP DG, SS Deswal said that 9-10 bodies have been recovered from the river and it is suspected that around 100 workers were at the site.
Indian Army, ITBP Teams Reach Joshimath, Rudraprayag
Rescue teams from the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have reached Joshimath, Rudraprayag and Tapovan Dam. Four rescue teams comprising Indian Army personnel are on standby in Dehradun.
'Rescue Operations Underway in Uttarakhand': PM Modi at WB Rally
Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is in West Bengal to inaugurate several infrastructure projects, began his speech by talking about the flash flood in Uttarakhand. “Uttarakhand is facing a disaster. I am in touch with Chief Minister Trivendra Rawat, Union Home Minister, and NDRF officers. The rescue operations are underway,” he said.
ITBP Rescues 16 People Trapped Near Tapovan
News agency ANI has reported that the ITBP has successfully rescued 16 people who were trapped in a tunnel near Tapovan.
National Crisis Management Committee Reviews Flood Situation in Uttarakhand
The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary, Rajiv Gauba met on Sunday, 7 February to review the situation arising out of the natural disaster in Uttarakhand, reported ANI.
CM Rawat Back in Dehradun, to Update Press Shortly
Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat, has according to ANI, said that he is back in Dehradun after reviewing situation on the ground.
“I am now meeting disaster management team comprising of state officials and that from Army and ITBP. I will be meeting press shortly and update everyone on the situation.”
DGP Ashok Kumar Leaves for Chamoli
DGP Ashok Kumar has terminated his Kumaon tour and will be reaching Chamoli disaster area.
'Praying for the Well Being of People of Uttarakhand': Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter to say that he has been watching the visuals emerging from Chamoli and that in this difficult time, we stand shoulder to shoulder with the people affected by the tragedy.
State Govt to Give Rs 4 Lakh Compensation to Kin of Deceased: CM Rawat
The state government will reportedly give compensation of four lakh rupees to the kin of the deceased.
“The Indian Army has reached the spot, a team of NDRF that has reached Dehradun is en route to Chamoli. Doctors have camped there. A team of 60 SDRF personnel with equipment have also reached the spot,” he told the media, as quoted by ANI.
He further said that only experts can tell the reason behind the glacier outburst and the Government is right now focused on saving lives.
“Five locals including shepherds with their 180 sheep and goats swept away in the flash flood. We are assuming that around 125 people are missing. The number can be higher,” he said.
Air Commodore Rank Officer Deployed to Coordinate Aerial Rescue Efforts
An Air Commodore-rank officer has been deployed at Jolly Grant by Air Force as Task Force commander to coordinate aerial effort for rescue operations in view of floods, reported ANI, citing Defence Officials.
Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat is monitoring military efforts for rescue operations.
Two C-130J Super Hercules With 3 Companies of NDRF Sent From Hindan Airbase
Defence officials, according to ANI, have further said that two C-130J Super Hercules with three companies of National Disaster Response Force and 15 tonnes of other loads and equipment were sent from Hindan airbase in Ghaziabad.
First C-130 J has landed at Jolly Grant airport near Dehradun and second one would be landing soon
An additional ALH deployed at Joshimath has undertaken reccee of affected areas, according to the Indian Air Force twitter handle.
Rs 2 Lakh Ex Gratia to Be Given from PMNRF to Kin of Deceased: PMO
PM Narendra Modi has approved an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to the tragic avalanche caused by a Glacier breach in Chamoli. A compensation of Rs 50,000 would be given to those seriously injured.
Dam Was Built Despite Protests Which Resulted in Floods: Raini Village Sarpanch
The Sarpanch of the Raini village pointed out “Raini is the village of Gaura Devi, the flag bearer of the Chipko movement, where the local people have always opposed the hydropower projects being built there.”
“But despite these protests, the dam was allowed to be built there which resulted in floods today. There is a possibility of heavy damage due to it.”
Further, the sarpanch said:
'Our Thoughts are With You': French President Expresses Solidarity
French President Emmanuel Macron has, according to ANI, expressed full solidarity with India following the glacier burst. Macron has said:
7 Dead, 170 Missing in Flash Floods: State Disaster Management Center
At least 7 people have been confirmed dead, six people were injured and at least 170 people are reported to be missing in the flash floods in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, according to the official figures given by the State Disaster Management Center.
Rescue Operations for People Stranded in Second Tunnel Underway
Vivek Pandey, ITBP PRO told ANI that after 16 people were rescued from the Tapovan tunnel, there are 30 people still trapped in a second tunnel.
“Now we are focusing on second tunnel, that is tunnel number one, we've learnt that around 30 people are trapped there. We will be carrying out night operations also. Our teams are already on the job and we hope that we'll be able to resue them,” he said.
Bodies Still Being Recovered: NDRF
Amrendra Kumar Sengar, IG NDRF told ANI that a lot of bodies are still being recovered since they are away from the incident site due to a speedy and strong flow of water.
“Since the flow of water was very fast initially, bodies are being recovered far away from the incident site. Some are trapped in deep areas and others in tunnels, so there is issue of access,” he said.
US State Department Offers Condolences
The US State Department expressed condolences for the deceased in the Uttarakhand flash floods triggered by a glacier break.
“Our deepest condolences to those affected by the glacier burst and landslide in India. We grieve with the family and friends of the deceased and extend our hopes for a speedy and full recovery for the injured,” it said.
Rescue Ops at Tapovan Tunnel Halted Due to rise in Water Level
Uttarakhand DGP Ashok Kumar said rescue work at the NTPC's 900-metre long Tapovan Tunnel had to be halted due to rise in water level, Press Information Bureau, Uttarakhand reported.
Fourth Telephonioc Conversation Happened With PM: Uttarakhand CM Rawat
Utarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat said that he had a fourth telephonic conversation with PM Modi.
Specialised Team Airlifted From Delhi Reaches Dehradun
All the specialised personnel who were airlifted from Delhi have reached Dehradun, Indian Air Force PRO Wing Commander Indranil Nandi told ANI.
“The airlifting of these personnel from Dehradun onwards to the affected areas will start at 6:45 am tomorrow,” he said.
“Scientists with specialised equipment will also be taken to the areas for aerial reconnaissance. We will ensure that maximum bases are available to support the operations,” he added.
Tapovan Dam "Completely Washed Off", Shows Survey
The Tapovan Hydro-Electric Power Dam, was completely washed off following the glacier burst, said the Indian Air Force's initial report as Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) deployed at Joshimath has undertaken recce of affected areas, reports Hindustan Times.
It said that two bridges at the entrance of Malari valley and near Tapovan are also washed away, while the main road between Joshimath to Tapovan is intact.
UK Ready to Offer Any Support Needed: Boris Johnson
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday expressed solidarity with India over the glacier burst in Uttarakhand.
UN Says Ready to Contribute to Rescue Efforts
The United Nations Secretary-General has released a statement, saying that is deeply saddened by the reported loss of life and dozens missing following the glacier burst and subsequent flooding in Uttarakhand.
“The Secretary-General expresses his deep condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of India,” the statement reads.
The United Nations stands ready to contribute to ongoing rescue and assistance efforts if necessary, the statement further says.
Australia Stands With India in This Difficult Time: Scott Morrison
8 Bodies Recovered From Tapovan
Eight bodies have been recovered from the rescue operation in Tapovan's Dhauliganga, in Chamoli district, reports ANI.
ITBP Says Has Intensified Search Operations at Second Tunnel
ITBP Spokesperson Vivek Pandey on Monday said that they have intensified search operation at the second tunnel. “Rescue operation is underway in different areas. More teams will be sent there if it is required, we are focussing on rescuing people from the tunnel first,” he said, according to ANI.
Team of Scientists to Go to Joshimath Area for Surveillance
UP On Alert After Glacier Burst in Uttarakhand
Following the glacier burst in Uttarakhand, an alert has been issued in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, directing District Magistrates (DM) and police in-charges of districts on the banks of Ganga to keep strict vigil.
The authorities have also been asked to evacuate people living on the banks in case of need. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) flood company have been instructed to remain on high alert.
178 People Issued Passes, 15 Rescued on Sunday
Neeru Garg, DIG Garhwal range told ANI on Monday 178 people had been issued passes there, of which 15 were rescued on Sunday.
“Rescue operations are underway in another tunnel. There's a possibility that 35 people are stranded in it,” he said.
Army Opens Blocked Tunnel at Tapovan, Rescue Ops On
Indian Army personnel along with Engineer Task Force opened the mouth of tunnel at Tapovan in the flood-affected Uttarakhand's Joshimath as rescue operations continued more than 24 hours after the disaster hit.
A senior Indian Army official said: "Rescue work continued throughout the night with earth movers by installing generators and search lights."
The rescued people were given medical aid at the field hospital created by the army at the site.
Indian Air Force helicopter sorties were carried out for insertion of rescue teams before first light. "Reconnaissance of higher reaches were also made to detect any avalanche threat," said a senior officer.
19 People Reported Dead, Over 200 Missing
At least 19 people have been confirmed dead and at least 200 people are reported to be missing after a glacier break triggered flash floods in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on Sunday, 7 February.
The workers who are missing are most probably from eastern UP and Bihar, DGP Ashok Kumar, told ANI. “I have been contacted in this regard that 30 of these people (missing) are from Lakhimpur Kheri in UP,” he said.
Expect Positive Results by Afternoon: Union Minister Pokhriyal
Union Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank on Monday said that ITBP is working on opening the second tunnel which is approximately 3 km long. “By afternoon we can expect some positive results,” he said, according to ANI.
Expert Team To Assess Uttarakhand Glacial Burst Using Satellite Images: Official
The Geological Survey of India on Monday said that it was soon to predict the cause of the glacial burst in Uttarakhand.
Speaking to ANI, an official said that another committee will be constituted to assess the incident, adding, prima facie, “it's glacial calving at highest altitude in Rishiganga and Dhauliganga area and upper reaches.”
The official said one of the Geological Survey of India’s officers was already in Dehradun. “We're also planning to constitute a team of experts who will visit the site and undertake a physical recce and use the data that is available through satellite imageries. We'll do an assessment,” he told ANI.
Union Minister RK Singh Visits Joshimath
Union Minister RK Singh on Monday visited Joshimath to take stock of the situation in the wake of the flash floods.
“We will monitor glaciers through remote monitoring or by setting up posts nearby. If people are alerted in advance then many lives can be saved,” Singh reportedly said.
Choppers Launched from Dehradun With Rescue Teams On Board: IAF
The second wave of Mi-17 and Chinook helicopters were launched from Dehradun for Joshimath with rescue and relief teams on board on Monday, ANI reported, citing the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The IAF Task Force commander is coordinating with the state authorities for the relief and assistance operations, IAF added.
13 Villages Cut Off After Bridge Collapse, Assistance Being Provided Through Sorties
Around 13 villages have been cut off after a bridge collapsed in Raini village due to the 'glacier burst', ITBP ADG Manoj Rawat reportedly said on Monday.
Forces are providing assistance to these villages, with at least five sorties carrying relief material having been sent, reported ANI.
What Led to the Floods? DRDO Official Answers
Detailing the potential cause for the floods in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, LK Sinha, Director, Defence Geo-Informatics Research Establishment, DRDO, told ANI on Monday, "Our team did an aerial survey of the glacier where the incident took place in Chamoli. Prima facie, it looks that a hanging glacier broke away from the main glacier and came down in the narrow valley."
"In the valley, it formed a lake which burst later and caused the damage. The data is being analysed by our scientists in detail and if required, they would again go to get more details," he added.
Comprehensive Analysis Being Undertaken to Find Cause of Disaster: CM Rawat
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat on Monday told PTI that comprehensive analysis is being undertaken to find the cause of the disaster that struck the state on Sunday and build a plan to avert any future tragedy.
The breaking of a glacier seems to have caused the Chamoli tragedy and experts from DRDO, ISRO and other agencies are being roped in, Rawat said, adding that ration kits are being provided by the state government to those displaced from their homes.
The economic loss will be ascertained in due course, with the priority right now being to save lives and rehabilitate the displaced people, the CM further told PTI.
Rs 20 Crore Released from SDRF for Uttarakhand Relief Operations
Uttarkhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat on Monday conducted a review meeting on the disaster relief operations following the glacier burst incident. releasing Rs 20 crores from State Disaster Response Fund for the operations, his office said.
Meanwhile, PM Modi, BJP President JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah interacted with Uttarakhands MPs and discussed the relief efforts and the future course of action, ANI reported.
26 Bodies Recovered, 197 Still Missing: Uttarakhand Authorities
Uttarakhand DGP Ashok Kumar said on Monday that 26 bodies have been recovered so far in the aftermath of the floods in Chamoli district triggered by a 'glacier break'.
As many as 197 people are still missing, as per the Uttarakhand Disaster Management Centre.