Cloudburst in Chamoli Leaves 10 Missing, Uttarakhand CM Dhami Monitors Rescue Efforts

Chamoli, September 18, 2025— At least 10 people were reported missing after a cloudburst struck the Nandanagar Ghat area of Chamoli district late Wednesday night, causing flash floods and burying several homes under debris.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said he is personally monitoring the situation and remains in constant touch with officials overseeing relief efforts. “Heavy rainfall in the Nandan Nagar Ghat area has caused damage to nearby houses. Local administration, SDRF, and police teams reached the spot immediately and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. I am monitoring the situation closely and pray for everyone’s safety,” he posted on X.

According to officials, eight people from Kuntari Laga Phali village and two from Dhurma village are currently missing. Rescue teams from the SDRF, district police, and local administration have been deployed to trace those trapped under debris. Two individuals have been rescued so far, while search operations continue for the others.

District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed that six houses in Kuntri Lagafali ward were buried after the cloudburst and said relief work is ongoing to clear debris and locate missing villagers. Preliminary reports suggest no casualties yet, though the rising water level of the Moksha River has added to the challenge.

Chamoli’s disaster follows heavy rainfall earlier in Dehradun’s Sahastradhara area on Tuesday, where three people died after being buried under debris and several homes were damaged. Officials said teams are working across affected regions to provide relief and prevent further loss of life.