A landslide triggered by heavy rainfall near the Surkanda Devi Temple in Kaddukhal, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, caused a hotel and a house to collapse within seconds on July 9, 2026. Dramatic video footage circulating on social media captured the structures crumbling as the rain-soaked hillside gave way. The incident occurred near the entrance to the popular pilgrimage site along National Highway 707A.
No Casualties Reported Due to Prior Evacuation
According to the District Disaster Management Department of Tehri Garhwal, no casualties or injuries have been reported. Officials stated that the landslide damaged an old vacant building, two restaurants, roadside kiosks, and labour huts. However, all buildings in the vulnerable zone had been evacuated before the landslide, preventing any loss of life. “No casualties or loss of livestock have been reported,” the department confirmed.
Excavation Work Suspected as Trigger
Preliminary information from the district administration suggests that excavation work for the construction of a private hotel near the site may have triggered the landslide. Authorities are assessing the extent of the damage and the factors that led to the slope failure. The incident has raised concerns about construction practices in landslide-prone areas.
Monsoon Rainfall Continues to Pose Risk
Heavy to moderate rainfall has persisted across several parts of Uttarakhand since Wednesday night, increasing the risk of landslides in hilly districts. Officials have advised residents and pilgrims to remain alert and avoid vulnerable stretches as the state continues to receive monsoon rainfall. The region remains on high alert for further slope failures.
