Uttarakhand Rains Cause Landslides on Badrinath Highway; River Ganga Surpasses Warning Mark in Rishikesh
Overview
On September 14, 2024, Uttarakhand is grappling with significant weather-related challenges due to persistent heavy rainfall across the state. The adverse weather has led to widespread disruptions, including landslides that have blocked major roads, particularly on the Badrinath National Highway, and has resulted in critical flood alerts along the River Ganga. This comprehensive update details the current situation, government responses, and safety advisories for residents and travellers.
Road Disruptions Due to Landslides
The heavy rains have caused severe landslides along the Badrinath National Highway, impacting vehicular movement and safety. Key areas affected include:
- Barrage Kunj
- Sonala
- Nandprayag
- Lambagad
The landslides have led to repeated blockages on the highway, which is a crucial route for pilgrims and travelers heading to the Badrinath shrine. Reports from ANI indicate that these landslides have significantly disrupted traffic flow, with roads becoming impassable due to the accumulation of debris and rockfalls.
Chamoli Police are actively engaged in managing the situation by directing traffic and ensuring the safety of travellers. They have established safe zones where vehicles can be stopped until it is safe to proceed. These measures are part of a broader effort to prevent accidents and ensure that people are not caught in hazardous conditions.
River Ganga Water Levels and Flood Alerts
The River Ganga, a vital waterway running through Rishikesh, has surpassed the warning mark, raising concerns about potential flooding. The current water levels are as follows:
- Warning Level: 293 cm
- Current Water Level: 293.15 cm
- Danger Level: 294 cm
The water level has edged close to the danger threshold, prompting an alert from local authorities. The district administration has issued guidelines urging residents to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid any potential flooding. The increasing water levels of the Ganga have led to heightened scrutiny and preparedness measures to mitigate the impact on low-lying areas.
Government Response and Instructions
In response to the ongoing weather challenges, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken proactive measures. He has instructed the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams and District Magistrates to remain on high alert. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of monitoring weather conditions closely and ensuring that all necessary preparations are in place to handle any emergencies that may arise.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister has urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel during this period of intense rainfall. This precautionary measure is aimed at minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring public safety amid the challenging weather conditions.
Weather Alerts and Forecasts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued several weather alerts for Uttarakhand in light of the ongoing rainfall:
- Red Alert: This alert is in effect for several southern districts of Uttarakhand. A red alert signifies the potential for severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and the associated risks of flooding and landslides.
- Orange Alert: Issued for other parts of the state, this alert indicates the likelihood of significant weather impacts, including moderate to heavy rainfall and associated disruptions.
The IMD’s forecast for September 14 includes isolated heavy rainfall, which is expected to exacerbate the current weather conditions and increase the risk of further disruptions.
Road Closures and Travel Advisories
The Nainital district has also been significantly impacted by the ongoing rainfall. Persistent rain has led to the closure of several major roads, including the Haldwani-Sitarganj road, due to water overflow in the Shernala area. This has caused considerable inconvenience to travellers, who are being advised to seek alternative routes.
Local authorities are working to clear the affected roads and restore normal traffic flow as soon as possible. However, given the current conditions, travellers are strongly advised to postpone non-essential journeys and stay updated on road status through official channels.
Rain Impact and Advisory
The IMD has issued a detailed advisory regarding the expected impact of the ongoing rains:
- Landslides: There is a high likelihood of minor to medium landslides, rockfalls, and mudslides in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand. These geological hazards have the potential to block roads, highways, and bridges, further complicating travel and rescue efforts.
- Water Flow: Sudden increases in water flow in rivulets and rainwater streams are expected, which may lead to bank erosion, overflow, and flash floods. These conditions are particularly concerning for areas near water bodies and low-lying regions.
- Flooding and Inundation: Flooding and inundation are likely in low-lying areas, especially in the Udham Singh Nagar district. The risk of flooding is heightened due to the combination of heavy rainfall and rising water levels in rivers and streams.
Safety Measures and Public Advisories
In light of the severe weather conditions, residents and travellers are urged to take the following precautions:
- Avoid Non-Essential Travel: Given the risks associated with landslides, road blockages, and potential flooding, it is advisable to limit travel to essential journeys only. This helps reduce the risk of accidents and ensures that emergency services can operate effectively.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest weather forecasts, road conditions, and flood alerts through official sources. This will help in making informed decisions and avoiding areas that are likely to be affected by adverse weather conditions.
- Prepare for Emergencies: Residents in flood-prone areas should be prepared for potential evacuations and have an emergency kit ready, including essential items such as medications, important documents, and basic supplies.
Conclusion
Uttarakhand is facing a challenging situation due to heavy rainfall, which has led to landslides, road closures, and flood alerts. The state government, along with local authorities, is working diligently to manage the situation and ensure public safety. Residents and travellers are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to safety guidelines, and stay informed about the latest developments to navigate through these adverse weather conditions effectively.
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