Uttarakhand Flash Flood: ISRO Images Expose Dharali’s Devastation
A devastating flash flood ravaged Dharali, Uttarakhand, on August 5, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), utilising Cartosat-2S satellite imagery, has assessed the extent of the damage.
The high-resolution images clearly depict numerous buildings submerged under water, significant alterations to the river’s course, and extensive debris deposits scattered across the affected areas. The scale of the devastation is alarming.
However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has refuted claims of a cloudburst being the cause, citing relatively low rainfall recorded in the region. This discrepancy warrants further investigation into the precise meteorological conditions leading to the flash flood.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of Himalayan communities to sudden and intense weather events. The government needs to urgently reassess disaster preparedness strategies and invest in robust early warning systems for these fragile ecosystems, ensuring the safety and security of the residents.
