India, May 14 -- Scientists have warned that diverting the Kheer Ganga river in Uttarakhand's Dharali could increase the risk of future disasters.

The glacier-fed river changed course after the 5 August 2025 Dharali disaster and has since been flowing westward into the Bhagirathi.

Geologist Naveen Juyal and environmental researcher Hemant Dhyani say forcing the river back into an artificial channel could disturb the geomorphological balance of the area.

Experts say high Himalayan rivers carry large amounts of debris and boulders, making rigid channelisation risky in a region already vulnerable to landslides, flash floods and glacial melt.

The case has revived concerns over construction on active floodplains and the wider policy of try...