Uttarkashi, August 11 (HS): A fast-expanding, three-kilometre-long lake formed on the Bhagirathi River has put the picturesque Himalayan town of Harsil on high alert, swallowing sections of the Gangotri National Highway and an Indian Army helipad. The swollen water body, created after massive debris blocked the river’s course, is continuing to grow, sparking fears of further devastation.

District Magistrate Prashant Arya, accompanied by Forest Department officials, carried out an urgent field inspection on Monday, ordering controlled release of the lake’s waters to prevent a sudden breach. While current outflow remains unobstructed, he warned that large uprooted trees lodged along the partial embankment could choke the drainage and escalate the threat. Authorities have been directed to remove these blockages immediately.

The lake began forming on August 5 after a sudden deluge in Dharali unleashed thousands of tonnes of mud and rock, sweeping away an Army camp and leaving several soldiers missing. The debris dammed the Bhagirathi near Harsil, creating a dangerous high-altitude reservoir.

The DM also oversaw large-scale relief and rescue efforts, instructing the evacuation of riverside residents to safer ground and the rapid supply of essential aid to affected families. District officials say round-the-clock monitoring and “war footing” operations are underway to mitigate the risk and protect the region’s fragile population hubs.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar