Two pilgrims lost their lives in a landslide along the steep trekking route in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. Officials confirmed that boulders came crashing down the mountainous path, trapping four individuals. Two of them sustained serious injuries and are currently undergoing treatment, reported PTI

 

This latest incident adds to a growing list of mishaps that have cast a shadow over this year's pilgrimage season.

 

The incident comes just days after a devastating helicopter crash near Kedarnath claimed seven lives on Sunday, including a toddler and the pilot. The Bell 407 chopper went down in the dense forests of Gauri Mai Khark, situated between Gaurikund and Triyuginarayan, amid poor weather conditions. The tragic crash underscored the risks posed by Uttarakhand’s unpredictable mountain climate, especially during the monsoon-tinged Yatra season.

That same day, another landslide had struck the region, killing one person and injuring two others. The severity of the situation forced authorities to briefly suspend the Yatra as safety assessments were carried out. Despite restoration efforts, this week’s fresh landslide once again disrupted the pilgrimage and reignited concerns over the treacherous terrain and the increasing frequency of natural disasters in the Himalayas.

 

The Char Dham Yatra 2025 officially commenced on 30 April, coinciding with Akshaya Tritiya, marked by the ceremonial opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines. Kedarnath Dham welcomed pilgrims on 2 May, followed by Badrinath Dham on 4 May.