Glacier Disaster in Uttarakhand

Fifteen people have been confirmed dead and approximately 150 are still missing after a part of a Himalayan glacier burst in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, triggering a massive avalanche and floods. Thousands of people have already been evacuated. Most of the missing people were working two small hydroelectric projects near the region, which was a part of the government’s development push. Hundreds of military personnel and rescue workers have been deployed for the rescue mission. Many world leaders also have expressed their solidarity with the people who have been affected. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police carried out the clearing of the 180 metre long Tapovan tunnel, where nearly 30 workers are feared to have been trapped. The prime minister announced a discretionary payment of 2 lakh rupees to the families of the deceased.