Continuous rainfall has kept several parts of Uttarakhand on alert, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for heavy rain for several districts from September 3 to September 7. While the Char Dham Yatra is continuing, pilgrims have been advised to remain cautious as landslides and debris continue to affect mountain roads.
On Thursday, a rain alert has been issued for nine districts, including Dehradun, Tehri, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar and Udham Singh Nagar.
Landslides Hit Rudraprayag Routes
Rudraprayag witnessed cloudy weather on Thursday morning, with rainfall reported in Ukhimath (18 mm) and Jakholi (13 mm), while Rudraprayag town recorded no rainfall.
The District Emergency Operations Centre said the Madmaheshwar pedestrian route between Gaundar and Trolley has been closed after heavy debris and boulders blocked the trail. Teams have been deployed to clear the route.
Rivers Remain Below Warning Level
Despite continuous rain, water levels of major rivers remained under the warning mark at 8 am:
* Alaknanda: 625.40 m (warning level: 626 m)
* Mandakini: 624.28 m (warning level: 625 m)
* Ganganagar River: 800 m
* Gaurikund River: 1973.95 m
Authorities said all rivers are currently flowing below danger levels, but monitoring is ongoing.
Several Roads Blocked, Kedarnath Highway Affected
Road connectivity has also been impacted by landslides. While the Badrinath National Highway remains open, multiple state and rural roads are blocked due to falling debris.
The Gopeshwar-Chopta-Kedarnath Highway has remained closed since Wednesday evening after debris from a drain blocked the roadway. Besides this, State Highway 37, the Mayali-Guptkashi road, eight PWD roads, three PMGSY roads and one NPCC road are also affected.
Advisory For Char Dham Pilgrims
The administration has urged pilgrims and tourists to avoid:
– Unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall
– Stay updated on road conditions before beginning their journey
– Follow instructions issued by local authorities and disaster management teams.