Sequential Damming Induced Winter Season Flash Flood in Uttarakhand Province of India

204 persons were killed while two hydropower projects located in close proximity at Rishiganga (13.2 MW), and Tapoban (520 MW) damaged Dhauliganga flood of February 7, 2021 the Indian Himalaya. This incidence occurred during winter season when discharge glacier fed rivers is minimal, no rain was experienced region around time flood. Despite main river, Rishiganga, not involved due to damming upstream its confluence with Raunthi Gadhera, based on field evidences massive volume 6 million cu m water this attributed sequential intermittent three different places; (i) Gadhera dammed first upper reaches, (ii) river then north Murunna, (iii) finally Rini village river. Lacking warning system only enhanced flood-induced devastation. Legally binding disaster risk assessment regime, together robust generation, dissemination infrastructure are therefore recommended for all major projects.