Rivers swell across Uttarakhand as heavy rain triggers alerts, road closures
Rivers Swell Across Uttarakhand as Heavy Rainfall Disrupts Travel and Education
Bharatmorningnews.com – Rivers swell across Uttarakhand as heavy monsoon rains continue to impact the Himalayan state, prompting officials to issue multiple alerts and close several critical roadways. The sustained downpour over the past 48 hours has caused water levels in major rivers to exceed warning markers, creating potential hazards for residents and travelers alike. Educational institutions in three districts have suspended classes, while emergency response teams remain on high alert for any developing situations.
River Water Levels Surpass Danger Thresholds
The Central Water Commission reported that several rivers in Uttarakhand have recorded water levels above their danger marks as of Thursday morning. The Alaknanda river at Rudraprayag reached 627 metres by 6 am, continuing to rise beyond its danger threshold. Meanwhile, the Mandakini river at the same location measured 626.20 metres at 7 am, placing it 0.20 metres above its danger level of 626 metres.
Downstream observations showed the Bhagirathi river at Devprayag maintaining a warning level of 462 metres with an upward trend. In the Haridwar district, the Raisi river recorded 230.09 metres, sitting 0.09 metres above its warning benchmark. These readings indicate that rainfall intensity has been consistent across multiple catchment areas.
Weather Forecasts and Official Alerts
The India Meteorological Department has issued weather warnings for multiple districts across Uttarakhand. An orange alert for heavy rain has been declared for Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar districts for Thursday, while a yellow alert covers the remaining districts of the state.
Suman noted that the India Meteorological Department has issued an ‘orange alert’ for heavy rain in Dehradun, Chamoli and Bageshwar districts on Thursday and a ‘yellow alert’ for the remaining districts of the state.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held consultations with Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman to evaluate the situation comprehensively. The Chief Minister directed all state departments to maintain vigilance and respond promptly to any emergencies that may arise from the ongoing weather conditions.
Road Closures and Transport Disruptions
Multiple national highways have been affected by debris accumulation and landslides triggered by the heavy rainfall. The Badrinath National Highway became impassable near Helang in Chamoli district, disrupting connectivity to the popular pilgrimage site. Similarly, the Gangotri National Highway closed near Dharasu Nalupani in Uttarkashi district.
The Yamunotri National Highway faced blockages at several locations including Silai Band, Durbil, Jangalchatti, and Sayanachatti. Continuous landslides have deposited significant material across the route, making travel difficult for both locals and tourists visiting the region.
Precautionary Measures and Public Advisory
Nandan Singh Rajwar, the District Disaster Management Officer for Rudraprayag, instructed staff to sustain maximum preparedness throughout the alert period. He emphasized the importance of broadcasting warnings via loudspeakers to riverside communities, urging immediate relocation to secure locations if water levels continue to rise.
Suman encouraged both locals and visitors to postpone non-essential trips until weather conditions improve. Educational establishments up to Class 12 in Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar remained shut on Thursday as a precautionary measure against the heavy rain warning. Authorities have also set up emergency shelters and coordinated with local volunteers to assist affected residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which districts in Uttarakhand are under orange alert?
Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar districts are currently under orange alert for heavy rainfall on Thursday. Residents in these areas should exercise extra caution and monitor local weather updates regularly.
Are schools closed in Uttarakhand due to heavy rain?
Yes, educational institutions up to Class 12 in Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar districts have suspended operations on Thursday as a precautionary measure against the heavy rain warning.
Which national highways are closed in Uttarakhand?
The Badrinath National Highway near Helang (Chamoli), the Gangotri National Highway near Dharasu Nalupani (Uttarkashi), and the Yamunotri National Highway at multiple points including Silai Band, Durbil, Jangalchatti, and Sayanachatti are currently experiencing closures or disruptions.
What should travelers do if caught in Uttarakhand during heavy rainfall?
Travelers are advised to postpone non-essential trips, verify current weather and road status before traveling, avoid riverbanks and low-lying areas, and follow instructions from local disaster management authorities. Emergency helplines should be kept accessible for immediate assistance.