A temporary lake measuring 400-500 meters has been formed in the upper reached of Harsil following the August 5 Dharali flash flood, TPO reported.
This has given rise to concerns over a potential breach that could endanger downstream areas. The IMD has warned more rains in the coming days and officials have said a sudden rupture would release the water collected downstream, worsening the current situation.
Efforts are being made for controlled drainage to save lives. A 10-memvber team of geologists from several departments has been sent to Uttarkashi to asses the lake's stability and recommend safe discharge measures.
SDRF personnel on Monday used electric saw to cut through a large tree obstructing the water's flow in an attempt to create an outlet.
Garhwal commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said that the measure had started to drain the lake which formed on the Bhagirathi in Harsil.
IG SDRF Arun Mohan Joshi said the affected area has been divided into sectors for coordinated management.
"A Lt Col from the Army is overseeing operations at the temporary lake in Harsil, with all necessary support being provided to ensure safe and smooth water discharge," he told TOI.
On August 8, NDMA member secretary Rajendra Singh had instructed state officials to maintain constant surveillance of the lake and deploy a joint Army-state team to inspect and oversee safe water release.
Border Roads Organisation said the lake has submerged around 600m of the road from Harsil to Dharali near the Army camp.
"We cannot assess the road damage until the water is drained. Repairs can only start after that," a senior BRO officer told TOI, adding that ongoing monsoon rains are worsening the risk and slowing restoration work.
"On Monday, work had to be stopped at eight other sites due to heavy rainfall," the officer said.
(With TOI inputs)
This has given rise to concerns over a potential breach that could endanger downstream areas. The IMD has warned more rains in the coming days and officials have said a sudden rupture would release the water collected downstream, worsening the current situation.
Efforts are being made for controlled drainage to save lives. A 10-memvber team of geologists from several departments has been sent to Uttarkashi to asses the lake's stability and recommend safe discharge measures.
SDRF personnel on Monday used electric saw to cut through a large tree obstructing the water's flow in an attempt to create an outlet.
Garhwal commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said that the measure had started to drain the lake which formed on the Bhagirathi in Harsil.
IG SDRF Arun Mohan Joshi said the affected area has been divided into sectors for coordinated management.
"A Lt Col from the Army is overseeing operations at the temporary lake in Harsil, with all necessary support being provided to ensure safe and smooth water discharge," he told TOI.
On August 8, NDMA member secretary Rajendra Singh had instructed state officials to maintain constant surveillance of the lake and deploy a joint Army-state team to inspect and oversee safe water release.
Border Roads Organisation said the lake has submerged around 600m of the road from Harsil to Dharali near the Army camp.
"We cannot assess the road damage until the water is drained. Repairs can only start after that," a senior BRO officer told TOI, adding that ongoing monsoon rains are worsening the risk and slowing restoration work.
"On Monday, work had to be stopped at eight other sites due to heavy rainfall," the officer said.
(With TOI inputs)
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