<p>The Himalayan region is highly vulnerable to geo-hydrological disasters. Each year, a number of cloudburst- and glacier burst–triggered debris flows, flash floods, landslides, and mass movements occur, devastating large parts of the region. This paper examines the drivers of the massive debris flow in Dharali, Uttarkashi, and highlights the role of rainfall, steep slopes, and human activities in triggering such disasters. It further suggests preventive measures for controlling these events. The Dharali service centre, located on the bank of the Ksheer Ganga—a tributary of the Bhagirathi River—was completely swept away and buried. More than 56 hotels and homestays, road, a bridge, and many apple orchards were destroyed. Another bridge connecting Dharali with Mukhawa village was fully damaged. Approximately 15 feet of debris was deposited at the mouth of the Ksheer Ganga, under which many lives were buried. Livestock, including cows and cowsheds, were also lost under the debris. It was observed that, apart from the construction of a road on the debris fan, no other activities could be carried out in the area. The damage was estimated at more than one billion Indian rupees. The findings of this research reveal that intense rainfall, narrow and steep slopes, and the construction of settlements along the violent Ksheer Ganga stream were the major drivers of this catastrophe. Therefore, it is suggested that the construction of settlements and economic activities should be strictly avoided along river/stream courses and on precipitous, steep slopes.</p>