Uttarakhand: CM Dhami orders Pindar River dredging to safeguard Tharali from floods

The Chamoli district administration in Uttarakhand has commenced river dredging work in the Pindar River following directives from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

The initiative aims to safeguard Tharali town from potential flooding by channelizing 1,280 meters of the riverbank, as per an official statement.

In 2024, heavy rains and a cloudburst caused a significant accumulation of debris in the Pindar River, putting Saraswati Vidya Mandir, the main market, and Ramlila Ground at risk due to rising water levels.

Responding to the threat, Chief Minister Dhami instructed the district administration to take immediate action. Acting on his orders, channelization work has been launched on a war footing.

Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed that, under CM Dhami's directions, debris removal is progressing rapidly and will be managed as per regulations. He assured that the work would be completed soon to mitigate disaster risks for the people of Tharali.

The swift intervention by the Chief Minister and the district administration has been widely appreciated by local residents. This effort will not only enhance the town’s safety but also help prevent future flood-related disasters by controlling the river’s water level and ensuring proper channelization.

Meanwhile, District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari addressed public concerns regarding cracks in houses and roads in Joshimath.

Commenting on a recently circulated video showing pits and collapsed walls, he clarified, "Regarding the video that circulated two days ago, which shows some pits being made and some walls falling, after the recent discussion and tensions, when the inspection team from the Municipal Council, District Panchayat, State Government, and Engineers went to inspect, they found that the pits were old, about two years old."

He reassured that there have been no new reports of cracks or land subsidence, stating, "The situation is normal, and there have been no reports or incidents of walls collapsing or any unfortunate events where people live. The situation is normal. We have been monitoring it."

Additionally, the Indian Army recently concluded search and rescue operations in the Mana area of Chamoli district. These efforts were part of relief operations aimed at rescuing Border Roads Organisation (BRO) workers trapped after an avalanche struck the region on February 28.