Uttarakhand On High Alert After Nepal Floods, Kumaon Rivers Under Watch

Dehradun, Uttarakhand - In the wake of severe flash floods in neighboring Nepal and ongoing rainfall in the Himalayan region, Uttarakhand's Kumaon region has been placed on high alert. The Champawat district administration, led by District Magistrate Manish Kumar, is closely monitoring the water levels of the Kali-Sharda River, which runs through Banbasa and Tanakpur areas.

Kumar reported that continuous rainfall is being recorded in the hilly regions, prompting intensified surveillance of the Sharda Barrage, river ghats, and other vulnerable riverbanks. Police, SDRF, and disaster management teams have been notified and are maintaining constant vigil in these areas, according to the Champawat administration.

The Uttarakhand Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, has directed Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman to conduct a thorough survey and scientific study of sensitive glacier lakes across the state. Regular assessments will monitor lake conditions, water levels, size changes, terrain, and potential risk zones. Modern sensors, water-level monitoring equipment, communication systems, and other technical resources will be ensured to provide timely warnings in case of a potential threat.

The Chief Minister also emphasized that safety and risk-mitigation measures should extend beyond early warning systems. All necessary steps will be taken to strengthen vulnerable areas, establish safe evacuation routes, map affected zones, establish robust communication networks, and enhance preparedness for relief and rescue operations.

A review meeting was held with all District Magistrates to focus on monitoring glacier lakes, river water levels, and sensitive locations. District Magistrates were instructed to regularly monitor risk areas and promptly report any unusual activity to higher authorities.