30 people killed, scores missing after cloudburst in Uttarakhand

The cloudburst occurred in the villages of Singhali, Patthakot, Ogla and Thal.

At least 30 people were killed and 25 others were missing as a cloudburst hit Singhali area early Friday morning, flattening homes in over seven villages and leaving many residents trapped in the debris.

"We have recovered few bodies from Singhali area while some have been found from Thal village. The search for others is on by rescue parties consisting of Army and paramilitary personnel," Pithoragarh District Magistrate H C Semwal said.

The cloudburst brought over 100 mm rains in two hours in a region of 50 sq km, affecting several villages.

"25 persons, missing from over seven villages of Singhali area in Didiihat sub division of the district, are being traced with the help of ITBP, SSB and Pithoragarh district police," said RS Rana, the district disaster management officer who reached the spot soon after the disaster occurred.

According to disaster management office sources, the cloudburst occurred in the villages of Singhali, Patthakot, Ogla and Thal.

"The villages are buried under heavy debris and people are trapped. The rescuers are trying their best to locate and save them," Rana said.

(This story originally appeared in the deccan Chronicle as may the case be)