Dehradun: The early onset of monsoon in Uttarakhand has triggered a series of natural disasters, leaving a trail of destruction across the state. In the last 48 hours alone, 24 roads, including two state highways and one border road, have been blocked due to heavy rainfall and landslides, severely disrupting connectivity in the hilly districts. The situation has raised serious concerns about the state’s preparedness for monsoon-related emergencies.
According to the State Emergency Operations Center, the affected roads span multiple districts: Almora, Haridwar, Pithoragarh, Tehri, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Champawat, and Pauri. Among them, Tehri and Chamoli have reported the highest number of blocked roads, with six PWD routes each currently inaccessible. The closures have not only stranded locals but also disrupted the ongoing Chardham Yatra, a major pilgrimage drawing lakhs of devotees annually.
Char Dham Yatra has also seen 142 deaths
The human toll is equally alarming. Between June 1 and June 23, 46 people have lost their lives—18 due to natural disasters like landslides and flash floods, and 28 in road accidents. Additionally, eight people have been injured, and two remain missing. The Char Dham Yatra has also seen 142 deaths, mostly due to health complications, but four fatalities have been directly linked to natural disasters.
In response to the escalating crisis, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has chaired multiple high-level meetings with the Disaster Management Department. However, the ground reality in the mountainous regions continues to expose gaps in infrastructure and emergency response. To bolster preparedness, a mock drill is scheduled for June 30 in the plains to simulate flood scenarios and test the efficiency of relief operations.
IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts for heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state until June 27
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts for heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state until June 27. On June 24, Bageshwar is under an orange alert, while Dehradun, Nainital, and Rudraprayag are under yellow alerts. The forecast warns of intensified rain activity, increasing the risk of further landslides and flash floods.
Uttarakhand Police have activated a bulk SMS alert system
To safeguard pilgrims on the Chardham route, the Uttarakhand Police have activated a bulk SMS alert system, sending out warnings every three hours about potential landslide zones and weather updates. This proactive measure aims to prevent casualties by keeping travelers informed in real time. Additionally, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams equipped with JCB machines have been deployed on both sides of identified landslide-prone areas.
Pilgrimage route has been divided into super zones, zones, and sectors
This year, the pilgrimage route has been divided into super zones, zones, and sectors, with checkpoints and police personnel stationed throughout. A total of 66 landslide zones have been officially marked, including 20 in Tehri, 18 in Chamoli, 14 in Rudraprayag, 9 in Uttarkashi, 3 in Pauri, and 2 in Dehradun. Temporary warning boards are being installed in newly formed vulnerable spots due to ongoing road construction.
IG Garhwal Rajiv Swaroop emphasized the importance of public cooperation: “Passengers are being appealed to follow police instructions and remain patient where movement is restricted. Our teams are working round the clock to ensure safety.”
As the monsoon deepens its grip, the state faces a dual challenge—managing the influx of pilgrims and mitigating the impact of natural disasters. With more rain forecast in the coming days, authorities are urging residents and travelers to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated through official channels.
