SDC Foundation Releases “Mapping Landslides and Vulnerability Zones on the Char Dham Yatra Route – A Citizen-Centric Lens” Report
SUNIL NEGI
SDC Foundation, based in Dehradun, has expressed deep concerns over the recurring landslides and traffic jams in Uttarakhand, which pose significant risks to both the state’s economy and the safety of people.
The Foundation’s founder, Anoop Nautiyal, released a report titled “Mapping Landslides and Vulnerability Zones on the Char Dham Yatra Route – A Citizen-Centric Lens” and stated that there are 20 major landslide-prone areas between Badrinath and Siroabagad, which are the most sensitive zones on this route from a citizen’s perspective.
He also referenced the recent landslide in Kwaraab on the Almora-Haldwani highway which had completely disrupted economic activities in the region.
Dinesh Semwal from SDC Foundation handed over the report to Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management, at the Secretariat.
A copy of the report was also given to Rajesh Chandra Sharma, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department. The report is also being submitted to other concerned departments.
Anoop Nautiyal shared that in November, during his visit to Badrinath, he observed 20 critical landslide zones between Badrinath and Sirobgad from a citizen-centric perspective, which could potentially be life-threatening for locals and pilgrims both.
He documented these 20 zones and has called for necessary safety measures to be implemented urgently.
He expressed regret that many sections of this vital road have either experienced landslides or are extremely vulnerable to them adding that areas where rocks have previously fallen, deep cracks and erosion have developed on the road. If these issues are not addressed promptly, they could pose a major threat in the future.
The 20 identified landslide-prone zones between Badrinath and Sirobgad are highly sensitive and need immediate attention said Nautiyal.
He also highlighted the example of Kwaraab where landslides on the Haldwani-Almora highway forced the closure of this route for an extended period. This disruption led to a complete halt of activities in the area for a long time.
Apart from landslides, he also pointed out the frequent traffic jams on the roads, which are damaging to the state’s economy, and urged swift action to tackle these issues.
The Foundation’s report includes five key safety recommendations for the National Highways Authority, Border Roads Organization, and local administration. These include strengthening damaged road surfaces, installing retaining walls or wire mesh, improving drainage systems, setting up warning systems, maintaining regular monitoring, ensuring upkeep, and initiating prompt rescue and relief operations during emergencies.
