Landslide on Yamunotri Highway due to heavy rains, Ganga flowing near danger mark

Heavy and continuous rainfall has severely impacted Uttarakhand, leading to significant disruptions, including the blockage of the Yamunotri Highway at multiple points and the rising water levels of the Ganga river. The Yamunotri Highway near Silai Band and Ojari has been rendered impassable due to extensive landslides and sections of the road being washed out. Efforts are underway on a war footing to clear the debris and restore connectivity, with officials expecting parts of the washed-out road near Silai Band to open by Tuesday evening. Uttarkashi Superintendent of Police (SP) Sarita Dobhal has personally inspected the affected areas, overseeing safety measures and restoration work.

Meanwhile, in Rishikesh, the Ganga river is currently flowing just below the warning mark of 1.38 cm, following incessant rainfall since last night. In response to the escalating situation, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police are actively appealing to the public to move to safer areas and remain vigilant. Rescue teams have been placed on high alert, and continuous patrols are being conducted in sensitive zones such as Rishikesh, Muni Ki Reti, and Laxman Jhula to monitor the situation closely.

The Regional Meteorological Centre in Dehradun has issued a "red alert" for "very heavy rainfall" along with "thunderstorms, lightning, and squall" for the districts of Dehradun, Uttarkashi, and Tehri Garhwal for Tuesday. An "orange alert" has been issued for Pauri Garhwal, Champawat, Nainital, and Rudraprayag, while a "yellow alert" is in place for the remaining districts of Chamoli, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Almora, Udham Singh Nagar, and Haridwar. The heavy rains have also led to disruptions in essential services, with power and water supplies affected in parts of Tehri Garhwal district.