Uttarakhand: Cloudburst Triggers Landslide On Yamunotri Route; 8–9 Workers Missing, Char Dham Yatra Halted

A devastating cloudburst on the Yamunotri highway in Uttarkashi district triggered a massive landslide near Silai Bend, damaging a hotel construction site and leaving 8–9 workers missing. The incident has forced authorities to suspend the Char Dham Yatra for 24 hours, citing safety concerns amid heavy rainfall and the risk of further landslides.

At the time of the disaster, 19 labourers were working at the site. While 10 were rescued and shifted to safety, search operations are underway to trace the remaining workers. Rescue teams from SDRF, NDRF, and local administration are carrying out intensive operations in difficult terrain and inclement weather.

Uttarkashi District Magistrate Prashant Arya confirmed that the rescue efforts are being conducted on a war footing. “We are doing everything possible to locate the missing workers and ensure the safety of others in the area,” he said.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed sorrow over the incident and said he is in constant contact with officials. “I pray for the safety of all and have instructed rescue teams to intensify their efforts,” he said.

Following the cloudburst, several stretches of the Yamunotri highway have been rendered impassable. At Ojari, the road has completely caved in, while fields have been buried under layers of debris, destroying standing crops.

In Syana Chatti, heavy boulders and debris falling from the hills blocked the flow of the Yamuna River, creating lake-like conditions. Water has reached the vicinity of homes and hotels, triggering panic among residents.

Given the continuous rainfall and worsening conditions, Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey ordered the temporary halt of the Char Dham Yatra. Pilgrims have been stopped at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag, and Vikasnagar. Police and administrative personnel have been directed to ensure the safety of all travelers and prevent any further mishaps.

The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rain in the region and advised people to avoid unnecessary travel in hill areas. Authorities have appealed to pilgrims and tourists to remain at designated shelters and not to pay heed to rumors.

The destruction caused by the cloudburst has once again highlighted the fragile nature of Uttarakhand’s mountain routes and the immense challenges involved in managing pilgrim safety during the monsoon. As rescue operations continue, the region remains on high alert, with officials urging vigilance and cooperation.

news