DEHRADUN: A devastating cloudburst in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi triggered widespread damage and chaos. leaving several workers missing, landslide and disrupting key pilgrimage routes in Uttarakhand. In the aftermath, the state government on Sunday suspended the Char Dham Yatra for 24 hours, citing a heavy rain alert and continuing weather-related risks. The incident has also led to blockages on crucial stretches of the Badrinath and Yamunotri highways, stranding pilgrims and prompting emergency response efforts.
Yatra halted amid safety concerns
Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed that the Char Dham Yatra had been paused as a precautionary measure. “I have given instructions to the police and administration officials to stop the pilgrims in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag and Vikasnagar,” he told ANI.
Nine workers missing after cloudburst
The cloudburst struck Silai Band on the Barkot–Yamunotri road late Saturday, triggering flash floods. The deluge caused severe damage to an under-construction hotel site at Baligarh, where 8-9 labourers were staying. All of them are currently reported missing. Uttarkashi District Magistrate Prashant Arya confirmed the incident, adding that the Yamunotri route had also sustained significant damage.
Over 40,000 cut off as 72 roads blocked across Kumaon
Heavy rain on Saturday triggered widespread disruption across Uttarakhand, blocking 72 roads and cutting off over 40,000 people in the Kumaon region. Multiple villages were plunged into darkness due to snapped power lines, and emergency restoration efforts are underway in the worst-hit districts — Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. Authorities have also imposed a night travel ban on Char Dham highways to minimise risks from potential landslides and muckslides. The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) has warned of more rainfall across several districts on Sunday and Monday, based on IMD forecasts.Read more: 72 roads blocked, 40k people cut off
Landslides block Badrinath Highway
Heavy overnight rainfall led to landslides that blocked the Badrinath National Highway near Nandprayag and Bhanerpani. The route is vital for pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines, prompting urgent restoration efforts. Chamoli Police posted on X, “The Badrinath National Highway is blocked near Nandprayag and Bhanerpani. Work is underway to open the road.”
Yamunotri route also affected
In addition to the Badrinath highway, the Yamunotri Marg has been heavily impacted by flood debris and road damage. Pilgrimage to Yamunotri has been disrupted, and traffic movement remains restricted as a result of the cloudburst. Additionally, Landslide also occured at the Yamunotri highway washing away 10-12 meter of the path. “Heavy landslide in Silai Band on Yamunotri Highway due to excessive rainfall. 9 workers missing, 10 rescued and safely evacuated. 10-12 meter section of the highway washed away. NDRF, and police are engaged in relief and rescue operations,” said the Uttarakhand police in a statement.
Rescue operations in full swing
Search and rescue operations were launched immediately by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police. Efforts are underway to locate the missing workers and secure the affected zones.
Disaster response on high alert
Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management, said the government is closely monitoring the situation. “All departments have been directed to remain on standby and take necessary measures for the safety of residents and pilgrims,” he said, quoted by ANI.
CM Dhami urges public caution
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami appealed to citizens to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel. “Given the forecast of heavy rainfall in hilly and some plain areas of the state, people are advised to stay alert,” he said.
Weather forecast remains grim
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall across several parts of Uttarakhand over the next 24 hours. Authorities are maintaining high alert across districts vulnerable to flash floods and landslides.
Authorities urge restraint
In view of the evolving situation, authorities have asked pilgrims and locals to avoid venturing into landslide-prone zones and to follow official advisories. Restoration of blocked highways remains a priority.