Heavy Rains Cause Havoc in Uttarakhand, Sonprayag Parking Collapses, Residential Areas at Risk

by

Bhupendra Singh Chundawat

Heavy Rains

Dehradun, 3 September (Kiran News): Relentless rainfall continues to wreak havoc across Uttarakhand, with all major rivers in the state flowing above normal levels. Local administrations remain on high alert as flooding and landslides threaten lives and property.

Heavy Rains

In a significant incident late Monday night, heavy water flow from the Son river caused severe erosion at Sonprayag, the main base camp for the Kedarnath pilgrimage. Around 15 to 20 metres of the Sonprayag shuttle parking area collapsed, and two Bolero vehicles parked there were swept away. Fortunately, timely alerts allowed drivers to move to safety before the vehicles were washed away.

According to Rudraprayag district disaster management officer Nand Kishore, the Son river’s rapid erosion remains a major concern. Rescue teams used a JCB (dozer) to recover the trapped vehicles from the collapsed area. Local residents are anxious as the erosion continues and is now moving closer to residential areas. The administration is closely monitoring the situation and has kept emergency teams on alert for any eventuality.

In Uttarkashi district, continuous rainfall over the past three days has led to the closure of the Gangotri and Yamunotri National Highways at multiple points. The Gangotri Highway is blocked at Nagun, Dharasu, Netala, Dabrani, and other spots, while the Yamunotri Highway is closed at Kalyani, Silaiband, and Jangal Chatti.

The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall with lightning in Dehradun, Rudraprayag, and Uttarkashi districts today. Haridwar, Pauri, Tehri, Chamoli, Nainital, Champawat, Udham Singh Nagar, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh are also expected to receive heavy rain. The State Disaster Authority has directed all district administrations to remain vigilant.

Leave a Comment