Uttarakhand Update: 8-10 bodies recovered, around 150 believed to be dead

A massive flood has been reported from Uttarakhand, where the water level in Dhauliganga river rose suddenly following an avalanche near a power project at Raini village in Tapovan area of Chamoli district. The flooding due to cloudburst or breaching of a reservoir has destroyed many river bankside houses. Hundreds of ITBP personnel have rushed for the rescue of feared casualties. Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Om Prakash said, "Casualties are feared to be between 100 to 150. Teams of ITBP, SDRF and NDRF have already reached the spot. Red alert has been issued." The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is helping in the rescue and relief work being carried out in after a devastating flash floods in Uttarakhand. They said that 100-150 people are believed to be dead in the disaster. ITBP chief SS Deswal said 8-10 bodies have been recovered so far. Also Read | India Caucus: Allow peaceful protests, access to internet The Chamoli district magistrate has instructed officials to evacuate people living in villages on the bank of Dhauliganga river. The district magistrate and the superintendent of police have left for the spot. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said, "A disaster has been reported from Chamoli district. The district administration, police and disaster management departments have been directed to deal with the situation. Do not pay attention to any kind of rumours. Government is taking all necessary steps." Adding, "People are being evacuated from the areas near Alkananda. As a precautionary measure, the flow of Bhagirathi River has been stopped. To prevent the flow of water of Alaknanda, Srinagar Dam and Rishikesh Dam have been emptied. SDRF is on alert. I am leaving for the spot." Also Read | Uttarakhand: Massive flood in Chamoli's Dhauliganga after glacier breaks SN Pradhan, DG NDRF stated, "The glacier breach has impacted the Rishiganga river & flooding has taken out one bridge being constructed by BRO. The upper reaches of the Rishiganga project also has been damaged. Chamoli, Joshimath and other downstream reaches will be affected." IAF Officials said, "Three choppers including two Mi-17 and one ALH Dhruv chopper of Air Force stationed in Dehradun and nearby areas for helping in rescue operations in flood-affected areas. More aircraft will be deployed as per the requirement on ground." -PTC News

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