- Heavy rains cause landslides, flash floods across Uttarakhand.
- IMD issues red alert, predicts more rainfall for 24 hours.
- Heavy rainfall has also led to a significant rise in the water level of the Ganga River at Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh.
Uttarakhand Weather: Heavy rain continues to batter Uttarakhand, triggering landslides, flash floods and waterlogging across several parts of the state, disrupting traffic and daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several districts on Friday, while the remaining districts remain under an orange alert amid forecasts of more heavy rainfall.
In Uttarkashi district, back-to-back landslides near Nalupani and Nagoon blocked the Gangotri National Highway multiple times after debris and boulders fell onto the road, officials said.
Traffic on the highway was restored on Friday afternoon after authorities cleared the accumulated debris. To ensure quicker response to future landslides, Uttarkashi District Magistrate Prashant Arya has ordered the permanent deployment of a JCB machine at the Nalupani stretch for immediate clearance operations.
Heavy rainfall has also led to a significant rise in the water level of the Ganga River at Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh.
As a precautionary measure, the district administration has strengthened security arrangements at all Ganga ghats. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Water Police and local police have intensified round-the-clock patrolling along Triveni Ghat and nearby riverbanks to prevent any untoward incidents.
Uttarakhand weather: IMD issues Heavy rain alert for next 24 hours
The IMD has warned that adverse weather conditions are likely to continue over the next 24 hours. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Champawat, Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, Tehri, Udham Singh Nagar and Uttarkashi districts. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong winds are also likely during this period.
The weather office has cautioned that the intense rainfall could trigger flash floods, a sudden rise in the water levels of rivers and seasonal streams, landslides, and road blockages in vulnerable areas. Residents and tourists, particularly those travelling through hilly regions, have been advised to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel and follow the advisories issued by local authorities.