Chamoli: Chamoli district in Uttarakhand has experienced three significant disasters over the past five years, all of which have centered around the Jyotirmath area. These disasters include horrendous incidents of floods, land subsidence, and avalanches, causing many fatalities in the last five years.
The first major disaster occurred in the form of a glacial flood on February 7, 2021, when a glacier broke at the origin of Rishiganga, causing a devastating flood. The second one followed on January 7, 2023, when the Jyotirmath area experienced significant land subsidence, affecting over 300 families. On February 28, 2025, an avalanche struck Mana village in Chamoli, claiming the lives of eight workers who were buried under the snow.
These three major disasters which are evident of vulnerability of Chamoli district
2021 Glacier Flood: The first disaster took place on the morning of February 7, 2021, when a glacier broke at the origin of Rishiganga, leading to a devastating flood. The flood swept away everything in its path, including people who were on the riverbank. Tragically, 206 people lost their lives in this disaster. The Rishi Ganga Hydroelectric Project was completely washed away, while NTPC’s Tapovan hydroelectric project was also severely impacted. The dam-side tunnel of the Tapovan project was filled with debris, leading to the death of 139 workers engaged in the project.
2023 Jyotirmath Land–subsidence: Barely two years later, on January 7, 2023, the Jyotirmath area faced another disaster—a land-subsidence. The land-subsidence caused widespread devastation, with the ground mysteriously cracking in many places. Large hotels and buildings began to collapse, affecting around 300 families. People were forced to spend nights in camps for nearly a year as the landslide rendered their homes unsafe. The disaster claimed the lives of eight workers and left the entire region reeling from its impact.
2025 Mana Avalanche: The most recent disaster occurred on February 28, 2025, when an avalanche struck Mana village in Chamoli. The avalanche followed two days of heavy snowfall, creating an atmosphere of fear among the residents. Avalanches are not uncommon in the Mana area, but this incident was particularly tragic, as it resulted in the death of eight workers. The avalanche followed two days of heavy snowfall, creating an atmosphere of fear among the residents.
Disruption of the snowfall cycle has led to an increase in avalanche incidents
The entire Himalayan region, including Chamoli, is extremely sensitive to natural disasters. According to geologist SP Sati, the disruption of the snowfall cycle has led to an increase in glacial floods and avalanche incidents. Along with this, uncontrolled construction and heavy footfall of people beyond the carrying capacity of higher Himalayan region, also have been the reasons for land-subsidence in the Jyotirmath area. He emphasized the need to mark areas prone to avalanches and minimize human activities in those regions. Additionally, he suggested that permission to set up camps in such areas should not be granted to ensure the safety of the people.
Series of disasters in Chamoli district have highlighted the vulnerability of the region
The series of disasters in Chamoli district have highlighted the vulnerability of the region and the importance of disaster preparedness. The local administration and authorities are working to address the challenges posed by these natural calamities. As the residents of Jyotirmath and surrounding areas continue to cope with the aftermath of these events, efforts are being made to ensure their safety and well-being.
