Uttarakhand Government Urges Chardham Yatra Pilgrims to Stay Safe Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

The Uttarakhand government has advised Chardham Yatra pilgrims to postpone their journey due to heavy rainfall forecasts. Authorities emphasized staying in safe locations and following local instructions. Recent incidents include casualties from a cloudburst and a house collapse. Relief measures are underway.

The Uttarakhand government has issued a safety advisory for Chardham Yatra pilgrims in light of heavy rainfall forecasts across the state. Authorities have advised devotees to delay their journeys and stay in safe locations. Director General of Police (DGP) Abhinav Kumar emphasized the importance of caution and advised pilgrims to commence their journey only during breaks in the weather.

'Your safety is our priority,' said DGP Kumar, urging compliance with the instructions issued by local authorities. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for the next five days in various districts of Uttarakhand.

In a recent tragic event, two individuals, Bhanu Prasad (50) and Anita Devi (45), were found dead while another person was injured following a cloudburst in Jakhanyali, Tehri Garhwal district. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) recovered the bodies and rescued the injured individual from a 200-meter-deep ditch.

In another incident, two children, Aas Mohammed (10) and Nagma (8), died, and nine others were injured when a dilapidated house collapsed in the Bhori Dera area of Haridwar due to heavy rainfall. Local authorities, including the District Magistrate and SSP, assessed the situation and ensured the injured received medical treatment. Compensation for the deceased and injured will be provided as per government guidelines.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a 'red alert' for Uttarakhand. Following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's directives, Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey inspected disaster relief camps and affected areas in Tehri district, addressing residents' concerns and ensuring effective relief measures. He reviewed camp arrangements such as power backup, television access, children's education, and livelihood support.

(With inputs from agencies.)