2013 North India floods
Natural disaster that occurred in Uttarakhand
Introduction
In June 2013, a multi-day cloudburst centered on the North Indian state of Uttarakhand caused devastating floods and landslides in the country's worst natural disaster since the 2004 tsunami. As of 16 July 2013, according to figures provided by the Uttarakhand government, more than 5,700 people were "presumed dead."
Causes of the disaster
The Uttrakhand disaster have been officially termed natural calamity caused by cloudbursts and unprecedented heavy monsoon rain. From 14 to 17 June 2013 Uttrakhand received heavy rainfall. Due to continuous rainfall the Chorabari glacier melted and this triggered the flooding of the Mandakini river. However the true cause of this epic tragedy is growth of tourism ,unchecked increase of roads ,hotels ,shops and multistory housing ,and also rapid growth hydroelectric dams that disturb water balance. Deforestation is also an important factor.
Rescue Operation
Over 1,00,000 people have been evacuated so far from the affected areas. Helping people rebuild their lives is the biggest challenge for the Uttarakhand government – in fact, for the whole country. Helicopters we used rescue people. By 21 June 2013 the army has developed 10,000 soldiers and 11 helicopters. The navy had sent 48 naval divers. The air force had deployed 43 aircrafts including 36 helicopters. Food and medicine was provided to the hostages. Several states gave financial support to these people. The US also took part in giving aid to these people. The Prime Minister of India undertook an aerial survey of affected areas and announced 1000 crores.