Uttarakhand Glacier Burst
On Sunday morning, clouds of danger loomed over India after an appalling glacier burst in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The disaster led to fatal repercussions triggering a series of deaths, injuries and destruction. About 10 bodies have been recovered while 150 people are still missing. The country has deployed Indian Army and Air force for search, salvage and rescue operations. Disaster Management drive has been initiated and the ghast intensity of the accident seems to indicate a tragic and terrible consequence. The glacier breakdown was followed by severe floods and devastation.
State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been deployed in Joshimath Area, according to SN Pradhan, the Director General of NDRF saying, "NDRF Rescue teams have moved from Dehradun to Joshimath. Efforts are being made to airlift the victims." Meanwhile, the Central government promised full support and coordination to the State Government in times of distress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed the solidarity of the nation with Uttarakhand and tweeted, "Am monitoring the misfortune that hit Uttarakhand. Whole nation stands with people and prays for their safety and well being. Talks with senior authorities are doing rounds while rescue operations have been started."
Around 600 personnel of Indian Army moved to flood affected areas, officials declared. Choppers have been deployed to fasten the rescue operations. Medical teams have taken the command while an engineering task force has been sent to Ringi village. The military station near Rishikesh, confirmed their coordination in relief and rescue operations with local authorities. Army headquarters are monitoring the situation. Three choppers comprising two Mi-17s and one ALH Dhruv Chopper of Indian Air Force were stationed in Dehradun and nearby areas to amplify the reach.
In response to surging fatalities, high alert has been enforced in Uttarakhand. Financial assistance of 4 lakh rupees has been announced for families of deceased. The glacier breach has instigated avalanche and massive floods in Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers, resulting in evacuation of thousands in nearby surrounding areas. The houses in the vicinity are damaged while a great deal of destruction has been caused to Rishiganga Power Project. The Hydro-electric project which was started in 2006 was almost 70% complete but faced the ravages of disaster.
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