Chamoli: Amid heavy rains and frequent landslides, the traffic on the Badrinath National Highway in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district has been severely affected. According to the sources, the route between Gauchar and Karnaprayag is particularly disrupted.
As per the information received from state disaster management secretary Vinod Kumar Suman, approximately 3000 vehicles, and a large number of passengers were stranded when the road closed in the morning.
Landslide zone at Chatwa Pipal is causing frequent blockage
The landslide zone at Chatwa Pipal on the Badrinath Highway has become a significant problem. For the past three days, the highway has been closed for hours due to vehicles getting stuck in the swampy conditions, causing severe traffic jams. On Tuesday morning, a six-kilometer-long jam occurred on both sides of the highway, trapping over 600 vehicles.
More than 3000 pilgrims and locals were stranded
This landslide zone was again obstructed due to torrential rain on Tuesday evening. Then, it was made operational for traffic at 12 noon on Wednesday. The highway was also closed in Nandprayag, which has been made operational now. For the last two days, this landslide zone has been a cause of trouble for the travellers as well as the locals. More than 3000 thousand pilgrims and locals were stranded here in two days, according to state disaster management secretary Vinod Kumar Suman.
Essential supplies are also affected in the area
Driving through this landslide zone is extremely risky, with vehicles swaying precariously as they navigate the area. The landslide near the Chatwa Pipal petrol pump, between Karnaprayag and Gauchar, has narrowed the road and created a swamp. Essential good supplies like newspapers, milk, and vegetables have been badly hampered between Rishikesh and Karnprayag.
Administration is providing all necessary support
Amidst these problems, the administration is continuously monitoring the situation closely, providing all necessary support to those affected by the disruptions on the highway. Besides, the administration is providing food and accommodation for the stranded passengers. Local authorities have also made arrangements, and langars are being organised by the municipalities of Karnaprayag and Gauchar. Additionally, hotel and lodge facilities are being offered to travellers.
Alternative routes for passengers
Chamoli District Officer Sandeep Tiwari has announced measures to manage the frequent highway closures due to landslides. Passengers are being informed about alternative routes to ease congestion. Travelers are now being redirected from Karnaprayag to Gauchar via Khal-Sarmola on Pokhari Road.
Preventive measures for incoming traffic
To effectively manage the situation, vehicles coming from Badrinath are being halted at Nandprayag, Chamoli, Pipalkoti, and Joshimath. Meanwhile, those heading towards Gauchar and beyond are stopped at Rudraprayag.
