Uttarakhand Weather Alert: Travel Advisory Issued After Deadly Landslide on Kedarnath Route

In a tragic incident, a massive landslide hit the Kedarnath National Highway near Kund, close to Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand. The landslide, triggered by continuous heavy rainfall, led to the death of one person and left five others injured.

Pilgrims’ Vehicle Crushed by Debris

According to officials, huge debris from the landslide fell on a vehicle carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh. The vehicle was crushed, instantly killing the driver and injuring five passengers. The deceased, 38-year-old Rajesh Singh Rawat, hailed from Lambgaon in Tehri Garhwal. He was transporting a group of young pilgrims from Durg, Chhattisgarh to Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Quick Response by Emergency Teams

Rescue operations were promptly carried out by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local authorities. The injured were rushed to Augustmuni Hospital. Two people suffered serious injuries, while three others sustained minor wounds. The victims, aged between 19 and 25, are under medical care and observation.

Monsoon Risk in Uttarakhand

The incident comes during the dangerous monsoon season in the Himalayan region, a period known for landslides and flash floods. Authorities have warned that the current weather conditions are unstable, increasing the risk of natural disasters in high-altitude areas.

IMD Issues Weather Warning

Krishna Mishra, a scientist from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), has forecast strong winds and heavy rainfall in the region:

“Extreme weather may cause strong winds and rain in Himachal Pradesh on May 31 and June 1, and in Uttarakhand on May 30, 31, and June 1. Travel should be avoided until conditions improve.”

Char Dham Yatra Travellers Urged to Stay Alert

With many tourists and pilgrims heading to Char Dham, including Kedarnath, authorities have issued a travel advisory. Visitors are strongly urged to:

• Check live weather updates
• Follow government advisories
• Avoid travel during heavy rains
• Plan trips carefully during monsoon months

Stay Safe in the Hills

The landslide is a stark reminder of the hazards of travelling in the mountains during monsoon. Past incidents have shown the unpredictable power of nature, especially in hilly terrains like Uttarakhand.

Travellers are advised to:

• Stay informed through official weather updates
• Avoid unnecessary trips to high-altitude areas
• Cooperate with local authorities and emergency services

Stay tuned for more updates on the Uttarakhand landslide and Char Dham Yatra safety guidelines.