Dikhyaa Mohanty 
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.
“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,” Patnaik said on social media platform X. My prayers are with everyone dealing with this unfathomable tragedy, and my deepest sympathies are with the families of the deceased. He said, “We ask Lord Jagannath to provide everyone impacted by this disaster courage and protection. In spite of these difficult circumstances, I also commend the rescue crews for their unwavering efforts in trying to preserve lives.
Concerns regarding the rising frequency of extreme weather occurrences in the Himalayan area are the reason behind Patnaik’s statement.
