Chamoli continues to reel under monsoon rains
Garhwal Post Bureau
Chamoli, 26 Aug: Chamoli district continues to grapple with the aftermath of relentless rainfall, which has triggered a disaster-like situation across several regions, particularly in Tharali tehsil. In response to the widespread damage and ongoing threat of further calamities, District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari has issued strict orders cancelling all leave for the government officers and employees posted in the district until 15 September. The decision, taken during a virtual review meeting, comes amid forecasts of continued heavy rainfall and heightened risk of landslides, as issued by the India Meteorological Department.
It may be recalled that an overnight cloudburst on 22 August had wreaked havoc in Tharali and adjoining villages, sweeping debris into homes, marketplaces, and even government buildings. The rain-swollen Tunri Gadhera canal overflowed, flooding the tehsil office and merging into the Pindar River, leaving behind a trail of destruction. Two lives were lost, one in Sagwara village and another in Chepdon market, while several others sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at AIIMS Rishikesh. Roads including the Karnaprayag–Gwaldam National Highway, Tharali–Sagwara Motorway, and Dungri route have been blocked due to landslides and debris, severely affecting mobility and relief operations.
In light of the situation, the DM has instructed that no officer shall leave headquarters without prior approval and valid justification. He emphasised that any unauthorised absence would invite strict disciplinary action under the Disaster Management Act. All the officials have been directed to remain at their designated posts and ensure uninterrupted execution of relief and rehabilitation measures.
Besides this, the district administration has also requisitioned the rest houses and offices of Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam in Kulsari and Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam in Deval to temporarily house the tehsil office and set up relief camps.
To expedite disaster response, DM Tiwari has ordered the deployment of revenue sub-inspectors, village development officers, and panchayat officials at the tehsil and block levels. He has also instructed the District Youth Welfare Officer to identify PRD jawans skilled in cooking and driving, so they may be mobilised for relief work. Machinery such as JCBs, excavators, and wood-cutting tools are being arranged to clear debris and restore essential services. The District Supply Officer (DSO) has been directed to ensure proper food arrangements at relief centres in Kulsari and Chepdo and maintaining smooth home delivery of LPG cylinders.
It may also be noted here that the IMD has issued a district-level warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning through the week. Schools and Anganwadi centres across three development blocks, Tharali, Dewal, and Narayanbagh, were closed on 25 August as a precautionary measure. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed grief over the loss of lives and damage, and is personally monitoring the situation, coordinating with the Chief Secretary and Disaster Management Secretary.
At the same time, several agencies including the SDRF, NDRF, Indian Army, ITBP, and local police have been deployed for rescue and relief operations, which are being conducted on a war footing. The State Emergency Operations Centre in Dehradun continues to oversee the situation, with constant updates being relayed from the ground.
