Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc Across Uttarakhand, Roads Blocked And Schools Shut After IMD Alert

SUNIL NEGI

Garhwal, Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is reeling under intense rainfall as a fresh spell of monsoon showers triggered by a warning from the Meteorological Department has disrupted normal life across several districts. The IMD had issued an alert for heavy to very heavy rain in the state, prompting authorities to remain on high alert for landslides, flash floods and road blockages.

The situation turned severe in Tehri district where incessant downpour since Wednesday night has badly hit daily life. Continuous rain led to multiple incidents of landslides and debris flow at several places, blocking the Badrinath and Gangotri National Highways along with a number of state and rural roads. The closure of key routes has left both pilgrims and local residents stranded and facing major inconvenience. Considering the deteriorating weather, the district administration announced a holiday on Thursday for all schools and Anganwadi centers in the district as a precautionary measure.

Similar reports of rain-related damage have come in from other parts of the state as well. In hilly districts, swollen streams and shooting stones have made travel risky, while in the plains waterlogging has affected low-lying areas. Officials said several link roads have been damaged due to landslides and teams of the Public Works Department along with district administration are working to clear debris and restore connectivity. Power and drinking water supply in some remote villages have also been impacted due to fallen trees and damaged lines.

The State Disaster Response Force and local administration have been deployed in vulnerable areas to monitor rivers and landslide-prone zones. Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, especially in mountainous regions, and to stay away from riverbanks and unstable slopes. Farmers have reported damage to standing crops in some districts due to waterlogging, while small businesses in market areas have also suffered losses.

With the Met department forecasting more rain in the coming 24 to 48 hours, officials said relief and rescue teams are on standby. The government has asked district magistrates to ensure immediate assistance to affected families and to keep relief shelters ready if needed. The administration is also closely watching major highways that connect the Char Dham pilgrimage centers, as any further blockages could impact the ongoing yatra.