Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc in Uttarakhand: 10 Dead, Critical Bridges Damaged

At least 10 people have died and significant infrastructure has been damaged on the Kedarnath route due to heavy rains, stated Uttarakhand State Disaster Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman. Rescue operations are ongoing, with officials working to reopen obstructed routes and relocate those affected to safer areas.

Following heavy rains in Uttarakhand, at least 10 people have died and both a concrete bridge and footbridge on the Kedarnath route have been damaged, according to State Disaster Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman. He confirmed that although all Chardham routes remain open, the Kedarnath footpath and 100 other routes are obstructed, with continuous efforts to clear them.

Earlier on Thursday, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inspected the disaster-affected areas and conducted a review meeting at the State Emergency Operation Centre. During the meeting, he emphasized that rescue teams worked overnight to relocate people to safety amid the devastating rainfall. He assured ongoing communication with local administration and instructed NDRF and SDRF teams to stay on high alert.

Dhami further directed officials to assist those affected by relocating them from high-risk areas due to rising rivers and drains. He noted that relief and rescue operations are focused on severely impacted areas such as Rambada, Bhimbali, and Jakhaniyali. He assured that any necessary funds for evacuation, relief, reconstruction, and rehabilitation would be sanctioned immediately and urged all District Magistrates to prioritize public safety.

The Uttarakhand government has also issued a safety advisory asking Chardham Yatra pilgrims to delay their journeys amid heavy rainfall forecasts and to stay in safe locations. DGP Abhinav Kumar reinforced this advisory, emphasizing the importance of following local authorities' instructions and prioritizing safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)