Jagran Correspondent, Uttarkashi | A massive landslide blocked the road near Sayanachatti on the Yamunotri National Highway, Uttarkashi, in Uttarakhand, on Saturday, causing trouble for the pilgrims. They were stranded due to the road closure amid inclement weather in the Himalayan state.

Around 100 pilgrims were escorted to safety across a washed-out stretch of the Yamunotri National Highway after the route remained cut off for two days.

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The authorities said a large number of pilgrims were stranded, and the rescue team reached there to provide support. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams arrived at the scene and launched a rescue operation, fixing ropes and safely facilitating the crossing of the pilgrims.

Rescue Teams Reach Site For Help

According to the SDRF, upon receiving information about the incident, a team led by Chief Constable Durgesh Raturi from Post Barkot left for Sayanachatti. A second team led by Chief Constable Rajesh Kumar from Post Jankichatti also arrived at the scene.

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The SDRF personnel first fixed ropes on an alternative route for the passage of the stranded pilgrims as the main road was completely blocked due to a landslide.

The Disaster Response Force personnel first built an alternative route, then carefully ensured pilgrims' passage. They helped tourists cross the road one by one using ropes. During the operation, approximately 100 pilgrims were safely evacuated and sent to their destinations.

The continuous rainfall increased landslide incidents in the region. A pile of debris blocked the Yamunotri route. The administration has appealed to pilgrims to undertake the journey only after enquiring the weather reports and road conditions.

Heavy Rains Lash Parts Of Uttarakhand

Meanwhile, very heavy rain lashed parts of Uttarakhand on Saturday, with Uttarkashi among the worst-hit as landslides blocked roads and disrupted public life. According to the India Meteorological Department, very heavy rainfall was recorded over Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and East Uttar Pradesh.

According to the SDRF, a massive accumulation of debris completely blocked the highway at Syanachatti in Uttarkashi district on Thursday after incessant rain triggered a landslide that washed away nearly 100 metres of the road.

(With Agencies Inputs)