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Scores feared dead after Himalayan glacier burst sparks massive flood in northern India (Watch)
Officials said that when the glacier broke off it released water, mud and other debris that had been trapped behind it. These in turn crashed into other bodies of water causing a knock-on effect further down the river.
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More than 100 people were reported missing after a glacier broke off and caused a huge flood.
Several rescue teams were sent in after the sudden barrage of water damaged two dams,several homes, and a power plant.
Between 100 and 150 people are feared dead, the chief secretary of the northern Uttarakhand State, OM Prakash, told ANI news agency.
More fatalities
Indian media cited officials that said there could be more victims and hundreds more may be stranded.
The PTI news agency cited a disaster response official who said more than 150 power plant workers have not been accounted for. Authorities also fear for the safety of workers at road and rail projects in the area, according to local media reports.
Seven bodies have been recovered so far. Rescuers also managed to save 16 people trapped in a tunnel.
The glacier broke off in the Chamoli district, causing a massive flood in the Dhauliganga River and damaging a nearby power plant.
People living along the riverbanks were ordered to evacuate.
First responder teams along with the military and border police were deployed to search for survivors.
Army helicopters are being used in the rescue operation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he is monitoring the situation. “India stands with Uttarakhand and the nation prays for everyone’s safety there,” he tweeted.
