What Happened in Uttarkashi? 8-9 Labourers Missing After Cloudburst

Uttarkashi, June 29 (NationPress) A cloudburst has resulted in the disappearance of eight to nine labourers following a landslide in Baligarh along the Barkot-Yamunotri road in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district. The incident washed away a campsite where the labourers were staying, near an under-construction hotel, causing extensive damage to the surrounding area, as confirmed by authorities.

Uttarkashi District Magistrate Prashant Arya reported that the administration was alerted about the situation early in the morning on the Yamunotri highway, roughly four kilometres ahead of Palighat, in a region known as Silai.

According to Arya, "There is a hotel under construction near Silai. A new landslide zone has emerged nearby, where no previous incidents had been recorded—this area was deemed safe."

He continued, "As the rubble cascaded near the hotel, the shelter for the labourers was swept away. There were 19 labourers present, and unfortunately, eight or nine are currently unaccounted for."

Rescue operations are actively being conducted by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police. Teams from the Revenue and Public Works Department (PWD) have also arrived at the scene to assist in rescue efforts and road clearance.

Arya added, "While the road itself hasn't completely washed away, it is currently obstructed by debris. It may take around two hours to clear the blocked section. However, a 10-meter stretch that has been washed away will require more time for full restoration."

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Uttarakhand for Sunday and Monday, cautioning residents about the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning in several isolated areas.

This cloudburst is part of a broader weather crisis affecting the hill state, with persistent heavy rainfall causing significant disruptions across multiple districts.

In addition, the National Highway near Nandprayag and Bhaneropani has been blocked.

In Rudraprayag district, the Sonprayag–Munkatiya road, which is a vital route for Kedarnath pilgrims, has been closed due to landslides and falling debris. Authorities have temporarily suspended pilgrim movement at Sonprayag and Gaurikund to ensure safety.

Multiple sections of the Yamunotri National Highway have also been blocked near Silai Band, with officials from NH Barkot alerted about the situation.

Furthermore, debris accumulation in a drainage area close to Syanachatti has obstructed the flow of the Yamuna River, which poses serious risks to hotels situated in low-lying regions.

Heavy rains continue to affect Chamoli, Pauri, Dehradun, Rudraprayag, and nearby districts, causing several link roads to shut down due to landslides. As river water levels rise, authorities have issued advisories urging residents living close to riverbanks to remain alert and take necessary precautions.