Chamoli: After Yamunotri and Harsil, Chamoli district in Uttarakhand is in the spotlight after an artificial lake formed on the Dhauli Ganga River near Tamak village in the Niti Valley.
Experts have warned that this lake could pose a serious threat to nearby areas if not handled carefully. The administration is on high alert and taking precautionary steps to monitor the situation. Now, Uttarakhand administration is trying to drain out the water from this artificial make to avoid any danger in the future.
चमोली के नीती घाटी में तमक नाला के नजदीक धौली गंगा नदी पर एक अस्थायी झील बन गई है। भूस्खलन के मलबे के चलते नदी का प्रवाह बाधित होने से ये झील बनी है। चमोली जिला प्रशासन के मुताबिक मलबे को हटाकर पानी की निकासी की जा रही है। #Chamoli #NitiValley #DhualigangaRiver #Landslide pic.twitter.com/jCux8tQQtk
— DD NEWS UTTARAKHAND (@DDnews_dehradun) November 2, 2025
Landslides created a natural dam, causing water to collect and form a temporary lake
The lake was formed due to landslide debris blocking the flow of the river. This has created a natural dam, causing water to collect and form a temporary lake. Such formations are unstable and can burst suddenly, leading to flash floods downstream. This is especially dangerous for villages located along the riverbanks.
Experts fear sudden release of water if this lake bursts
Geologists and disaster management experts have visited the site and are studying the lake’s structure. They fear that if the water pressure increases or the debris shifts, it could lead to a sudden release of water. This would endanger lives, damage property, and affect infrastructure in the region.
Authorities are keeping a close eye
The district administration, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and local police, is keeping a close watch on the lake. Surveillance teams have been deployed, and drone cameras are being used to monitor changes in water levels and debris movement.
Urged residents to remain cautious
Officials have also alerted nearby villages and asked residents to stay cautious. Emergency response teams are ready to act if the situation worsens. The administration is preparing evacuation plans and has identified safe zones for people to move to in case of an emergency.
In 2021, a glacier burst in the same region caused massive destruction
This is not the first time the Dhauli Ganga River has faced such a situation. In 2021, a glacier burst in the same region caused massive destruction, killing many and damaging hydropower projects. That incident has made authorities more cautious this time. Experts say that such artificial lakes are common in mountainous regions but must be handled with care. Continuous monitoring, early warning systems, and quick response plans are essential to prevent disasters.
Govt is considering long-term solutions
The government is also considering long-term solutions like controlled drainage and strengthening the riverbanks to reduce future risks. Local residents have appreciated the administration’s alertness and hope that timely action will prevent any tragedy.
Lake remains stable, but the situation is being watched closely
As of now, the lake remains stable, but the situation is being watched closely. Authorities are urging people not to panic but to stay informed and follow safety instructions. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this artificial lake becomes a danger or is safely managed.