Dehradun: Uttarakhand continues to reel under the impact of incessant rains as the Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for very heavy rainfall in Bageshwar, Nainital, and Rudraprayag on Wednesday.
Several other districts, including Dehradun, Tehri, Chamoli, Champawat, and Pithoragarh, have also been warned of heavy showers accompanied by thunder and lightning. The state’s fragile hill terrain is showing signs of strain, with cracks appearing and landslides disrupting key roads and pilgrim routes.
Situation is particularly alarming in the Kumaon region
The situation is particularly alarming in the Kumaon region, where overflowing rivers and saturated slopes have led to multiple landslides, cutting off connectivity and triggering fears of more damage. In Badrinath and Kedarnath, as well as surrounding Char Dham areas, late-night rainfall further worsened conditions for pilgrims and residents alike.
Ministry of Earth Sciences has issued a flood warning for eight districts
The Ministry of Earth Sciences has issued a flood warning for eight districts, prompting the Uttarakhand State Disaster Authority to activate emergency alerts. In response, NDRF and SDRF teams have been deployed and remain on high alert for rescue and relief operations.
Dehradun weather remained pleasant throughout the day
In Dehradun, the weather remained pleasant throughout the day. While brief spells of sunshine broke through, intermittent downpours and gusty winds kept temperatures suppressed. According to the Meteorological Department, the maximum temperature dropped by 6.2°C, while the minimum saw a slight increase of 0.4°C, indicating high humidity and moisture saturation in the atmosphere.
Across the state, temperatures have fallen by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius, providing some respite from summer heat but increasing the risks associated with prolonged rain and unstable terrain. The impact on transportation has been severe. In Pithoragarh, a significant landslide near Chetalkot blocked the Dharchula-Tawaghat motor road, stranding several vehicles, including those of pilgrims returning from the Adi Kailash Yatra.
33 road routes have been closed due to landslides and debris
The State Disaster Operation Center reported that 33 road routes have been closed due to landslides and debris. Among the major blockages, the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway remains inaccessible to heavy vehicles due to accumulated debris near Pinola Ghat ahead of Joshimath. Additionally, 24 roads under PMGSY and 6 maintained by the Public Works Department are currently blocked.
Authorities are urging residents and travelers to remain cautious
As the Char Dham Yatra continues, the unpredictability of the weather and the compromised road network pose growing concerns for pilgrim safety. Authorities are urging residents and travelers to remain cautious and follow advisories. The weather department forecasts continued instability over the next 48 hours, with the possibility of cloudbursts and flash floods in vulnerable zones.
