In a first-of-its-kind district-wise study, researchers at Indian Institute Of Technology Roorkee have mapped the vulnerability of Uttarakhand to earthquakes and landslides, warning that several parts of the Himalayan state face a severe risk of large-scale disasters. The report identified Rudraprayag as the most sensitive district, followed by Pithoragarh, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi.

Experts point out that the fragile Himalayan terrain, steep mountain slopes, and heavy monsoon rains significantly multiply the threat of natural disasters in these regions.

The study mentioned that landslide incidents are steadily rising across Uttarakhand. During an earthquake, soil moisture and slope instability could trigger large-scale destruction. The study used “Peak Ground Acceleration” (PGA) scenarios — a measure of earthquake shaking — to assess how landslides would occur during seismic events. The results indicate that earthquake-triggered landslides present a much higher threat than regular or permanent slope failures.

Rudraprayag, located in central Uttarakhand along the Alaknanda and Mandakini river valleys, emerged as the most at-risk district due to its steep terrain and history of seismic activity.

Official data showed that landslides intensify during the monsoon every year. In 2023 alone, more than 200 incidents were recorded, disrupting road networks and claiming dozens of lives. The 2013 Kedarnath disaster had already demonstrated the scale of destruction possible in the region.

The release of the report has prompted the state government to take precautionary measures. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami directed all agencies, including district administrations, police, and disaster response teams, to remain on high alert. The government will extend every possible assistance to people affected in the event of any disaster. Relief and rescue teams must remain ready round the clock, Dhami said.

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