In a proactive measure to mitigate flood risks in Tharali, the Chamoli district administration in Uttarakhand has commenced dredging operations on the Pindar River following directives from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
The river channelisation process involves dredging a 1,280-meter stretch of the riverbank to safeguard Tharali town from potential flooding, as per an official statement. The decision comes in response to the heavy rains and cloudbursts of 2024, which led to a massive accumulation of debris in the Pindar River. This buildup had raised water levels, posing a threat to key areas including Saraswati Vidya Mandir, the main market, and Ramlila Ground.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Chief Minister Dhami instructed the district administration to take immediate action. Consequently, the dredging and debris removal efforts were initiated on a war footing to prevent further risks to the town and its residents.
Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari affirmed that, under CM Dhami’s instructions, the removal of debris from the riverbanks is progressing rapidly and will be carried out in strict adherence to environmental and safety regulations. He assured that the work would be completed at the earliest to minimize the risk of disasters in Tharali.
The local residents have lauded the swift response of Chief Minister Dhami and the district administration, expressing gratitude for their prompt action in addressing the flood threat. This initiative is expected to not only fortify the town’s resilience against future floods but also ensure the safety and security of the population. The channelization of the river will help regulate water levels, thereby reducing flood risks significantly.
Meanwhile, Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari addressed recent concerns regarding cracks in houses and roads in Joshimath. Responding to a video that surfaced online showing pits and crumbling walls, Tiwari clarified that these pits were not newly formed but had existed for approximately two years.
"The video that circulated a few days ago depicted old pits and pre-existing damage. After a thorough inspection by teams from the Municipal Council, District Panchayat, State Government, and engineers, it was confirmed that no new cracks or pits have emerged in the area," Tiwari stated.
He reassured residents that the situation remains stable, and there have been no reports of fresh structural damage, wall collapses, or incidents affecting inhabited areas. Authorities continue to monitor the region to ensure the safety of the residents.
In a related development, the Indian Army successfully concluded search and rescue operations in the Mana area of Chamoli district on March 2. These operations were part of efforts to locate and rescue Border Roads Organisation (BRO) workers who were trapped following an avalanche on February 28.
The government’s multi-pronged approach, from flood prevention in Tharali to monitoring Joshimath’s stability and carrying out rescue operations in Chamoli, reflects a strong commitment to disaster management and public safety in Uttarakhand.
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