Bhubaneswar: Leader of Opposition and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives caused by a cloudburst-triggered flash flood in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand.
The disaster struck Dharali village, a popular stopover en route to Gangotri, sweeping away several houses and leaving at least four people dead. Many others are reported missing, and the area—home to numerous hotels, restaurants, and homestays—has been left devastated by the deluge.
Taking to social media platform X, Patnaik posted: “I am deeply anguished by the devastating cloudburst in #Uttarkashi, which has unleashed havoc in Dharali village, claiming precious lives and leaving many others missing. My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families, and my thoughts are with all those enduring this unimaginable tragedy.”
He further wrote, “We pray to Lord Jagannath to grant strength and protection to everyone affected by this calamity. I also salute the tireless efforts of the rescue teams who are bravely working to save lives amidst these challenging conditions.”
Patnaik’s message comes amid growing concerns over the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in the Himalayan region.
