Kedarnath Cloudburst: Nearly 200 pilgrims trapped amid heavy landslide

“Devbhoomi” has been struck by yet another natural disaster, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Uttarakhand. On Wednesday, a Kedarnath Cloudburst triggered a catastrophic landslide in Uttarakhand’s Kedarnath, resulting in significant damage to approximately 30 meters of the walkway leading to the revered Kedarnath shrine.

Impact of the Kedarnath Cloudburst

As reported by India Today, the Kedarnath Cloudburst has caused substantial disruption in the region. The cloudburst, characterized by an intense and sudden rainfall, led to a landslide in the Bhimbali stream along the Kedarnath walkway. This landslide has severely affected the route, which has been shut down for safety reasons. Pilgrims attempting to reach the shrine have been redirected to safer locations, with many being held at Bhimbali Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) as the road was washed out by the landslide.

The safety forces, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and local officials, have been mobilized in response to the incident. They are currently on high alert, working to assess the situation and provide aid. Concerns have been raised regarding the 150 to 200 pilgrims who might be stranded in Kedarnath. Authorities have advised those on their way to the shrine to stay in safe places until the situation is under control.

Fortunately, no casualties have been reported thus far. However, the Kedarnath Cloudburst has caused significant disruption, with large boulders blocking the path and making it impassable. Banshidhar Tiwari, Director General (Information), reported that around 20 to 25 meters of footpath near Bhimbali has been washed away. He confirmed that rescue teams have been deployed to the affected area to assist with the ongoing efforts.

Response and Recovery Efforts

In the aftermath of the Kedarnath Cloudburst, the focus has shifted to rescue and recovery operations. The rising water levels in the Gaurikund sector prompted the evacuation of individuals from the temple premises. According to Tiwari, everyone has been safely relocated to secure locations, and there have been no reports of loss of life related to this specific incident.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has been actively involved in coordinating the response to this crisis. Late Wednesday night, he spoke with the disaster management secretary to review the situation and obtain updates on relief and rescue operations. CM Dhami has previously instructed district administration, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and SDRF teams to remain on high alert. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for several areas, further complicating the situation.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of public safety, advising residents and travelers to remain indoors during heavy downpours. He reiterated that the safety of both local residents and visitors is the top priority for the state administration.

The Kedarnath Cloudburst adds to a series of natural calamities affecting Uttarakhand. Just a few days prior, the Tehri district faced a devastating landslide caused by heavy rain. This incident resulted in multiple fatalities, including the tragic death of a 42-year-old woman and her teenage daughter, who were buried under debris as their homes and shops were washed away.

As the state grapples with these challenges, the focus remains on providing timely relief and support to those affected. Efforts are being intensified to restore access to key areas, including the Kedarnath shrine, and to ensure that all stranded individuals receive the assistance they need. The combined efforts of local authorities, disaster response teams, and the community will be crucial in navigating this difficult period and mitigating the impact of ongoing natural disasters in the region.

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