Gujarat : 40 Palanpur Pilgrims Stranded on Badrinath-Yamunotri Road Due to Landslides in Uttarakhand
Palanpur — Forty pilgrims from Palanpur, who embarked on the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, have been stranded on the Badrinath-Yamunotri road following massive landslides caused by incessant heavy rains. The adverse weather conditions have led to road traffic being halted as landslides have rendered several key routes impassable.
In Chamoli district, the alternative route of the Badrinath Highway from Nandprayag to Kot Kotiyalsen has been closed due to landslides. Similarly, both the Yamunotri and Badrinath Highways have been shut down after rocks and debris fell onto the roads. The administration is actively working to remove the fallen stones and clear the paths.
Agency Reports indicate that near Tharali Chepdo on the Tharali-Dewal road, two large pine trees were uprooted and fell due to a landslide, blocking the road for over 12 hours. Efforts are underway to remove them with the help of JCB machines. Additionally, the Badrinath Highway at Chatwapipal near Karnaprayag is blocked, with a significant number of pilgrims stranded at that location as well.
The Yamunotri Highway has also been affected, with rockfalls causing closures. Near Radi, the road blockage has severed the Yamuna Valley's connection to the district headquarters, leaving locals and pilgrims isolated.
According to officials, heavy rainfall on Saturday morning triggered landslides at multiple points along the Badrinath National Highway, including areas like Lambagad, Nandprayag, Sonal, and Barrage Kunj. The road between Sakot and Nandprayag, which serves as an alternative route, has also been closed due to landslides.
Chamoli district police have reported frequent road closures due to the persistent heavy rains causing landslides along the Badrinath National Highway. "Our teams are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. We are making all efforts to relocate them to safer places," a police spokesperson said.
Rescue operations are in full swing as the administration deploys resources to clear the debris and restore connectivity. Pilgrims and locals are advised to remain at safe locations and follow instructions from authorities. Weather forecasts predict continued rainfall, and officials have urged people to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel in the affected areas.
The state government is monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with disaster management teams to expedite relief efforts. The stranded pilgrims from Palanpur and other areas are receiving assistance, including food and shelter, until they can safely proceed with their journey.
Travelers planning to visit Uttarakhand are advised to stay updated on the latest weather and road conditions and to heed warnings issued by the meteorological department and local authorities.
