Red Alert Issued as Heavy Rains Batter Uttarakhand
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for seven districts in Uttarakhand as incessant rains continue to wreak havoc across the state. The districts on high alert include Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. According to officials, the downpour has triggered multiple landslides, leading to the closure of several key roads and disrupting normal life.
State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been deployed for rescue operations, with authorities urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant. The heavy rainfall has also caused waterlogging in low-lying regions, exacerbating the situation.
Casualties and Damage Reported
At least five people have lost their lives in rain-related incidents over the past 24 hours, according to the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority. In one incident, a landslide buried a house in Rudraprayag district, killing three members of a family. Two others died in separate incidents of wall collapse and drowning in Dehradun and Pauri districts respectively.
The state government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to expedite relief and rescue operations, emphasizing the need for immediate assistance to affected families.
Road Closures and Travel Disruptions
Over 200 roads, including major highways and rural routes, have been closed due to landslides and debris. The Char Dham Yatra route has been particularly affected, with sections of the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway blocked at multiple points. Pilgrims and tourists have been advised to postpone their journeys until weather conditions improve.
The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation has suspended bus services to several hill stations, stranding many travelers. Alternate routes are being identified, but officials warn that restoration efforts may take days due to continuous rainfall.
Schools Closed, Power Supply Hit
In response to the adverse weather, district administrations have ordered the closure of all schools and colleges in the affected areas until further notice. Power supply has been disrupted in many villages due to snapped lines and damaged transformers. Repair teams are working to restore electricity, but accessibility issues are hampering progress.
The IMD has predicted more heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours, maintaining the red alert. Residents have been cautioned against venturing near rivers and landslide-prone areas. Emergency helplines have been activated for those in distress.
Government Response and Rescue Efforts
The state government has mobilized National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to assist in search and rescue operations. Helicopter surveys are being conducted in the worst-hit regions to assess damage and plan relief drops. Temporary relief camps have been set up in several locations to shelter displaced families.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Chief Minister Dhami, assuring full support from the central government. The Indian Army has been put on standby, and additional resources are being rushed to the affected districts.
