Glacier tragedy in the Himalayas kills at least 19 people
A glacier collapse in the Himalayas has killed at least 19 people, with hundreds others reported missing
After part of a glacier collapsed at 11 a.m. local time on 7 February in Uttarakhand, India, masses of water and rock surged down Dhauliganga river, causing devastation at Rishiganga hydropower dam. At least 19 people have died and around 202 are reported missing.
Rescue efforts continue in the region, focusing specifically on a 2.5km-long tunnel, where workers are believed to be trapped. Downstream, tourist spots along the banks of the Ganges have been closed, and boating activities have ceased.
Currently, it is unclear exactly what caused the incident, and whether it was a glacier collapsing or an avalanche. However, many blame the worsening effects of climate change while others are concerned over the building of intensive hydropower dam projects in the Himalayan region.