Heavy Rains Trigger Landslides, Block Badrinath Highway in Chamoli
Torrential rains in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district have unleashed chaos, with recurring landslides blocking the Badrinath National Highway and causing significant inconvenience to travelers.
Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, repeatedly blocking the Badrinath National Highway due to landslides. The relentless monsoon has caused significant inconvenience to travelers, particularly pilgrims en route to the sacred Badrinath shrine. The highway, a vital link for the Char Dham Yatra, was temporarily closed after a major landslide dumped debris across the road, stranding commuters and disrupting travel plans.
Brief Reopening Amid Challenges
Following intensive efforts by local authorities, the Badrinath Highway was cleared and reopened briefly, offering temporary relief to travelers. However, fresh downpours triggered additional landslides, leading to renewed closures. The unstable terrain, exacerbated by continuous rain, has made it difficult to maintain consistent access. The administration has deployed heavy machinery and disaster response teams to clear debris, but officials warn that ongoing weather conditions may delay full restoration.
Wider Impact on Villages
The monsoon’s fury extends beyond the highway, with power supply disrupted in several villages across Chamoli. Fallen trees and damaged power lines have left residents grappling with outages, affecting daily life. Additionally, a residential building in the district suffered structural damage when its railing collapsed due to the intense rainfall. While no injuries were reported, the incident has raised concerns about the safety of infrastructure in the region during the monsoon season.
Administration’s Response and Outlook
The Chamoli district administration is actively assessing the extent of the damage caused by the landslides and heavy rains. Teams are working round-the-clock to restore connectivity and power, prioritizing the safety of residents and travelers. As the monsoon continues to challenge Uttarakhand’s infrastructure, the resilience of local communities and the administration’s swift response remain critical to mitigating the crisis.
