Uttarkashi witnessed heavy snowfall that blanketed the hilly areas in white, disrupting traffic on several main highways and rural roads. The intense snowfall on Friday halted movement in high-altitude regions, leaving hundreds of vehicles and tourists stranded. The district administration swiftly initiated large-scale relief and road clearance operations, successfully rescuing a significant number of people and vehicles.
Under the guidance of District Magistrate Prashant Arya, teams from the Public Works Department (PWD), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Disaster Management, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other agencies are working round the clock. Heavy machinery including JCBs, snow-cutters, and bulldozers are being employed to clear the snow rapidly. The administration has ensured that those stranded receive immediate assistance such as shelter, warm food, drinking water, blankets, and first aid.
The Uttarkashi–Chaurangi route has been fully reopened for traffic, restoring movement in the area. Snow clearance work continues in the Bagori region of Harshil Valley and near Jhalla Bridge. On the Uttarkashi–Lambgaon route, 14 people—including eight women and children—were safely evacuated with the help of JCB machinery.
Three individuals were escorted to the Forest Department outpost via the Banchora-Diwari Khol and Patthar Khol routes. On the Purola-Mori road, 20 to 30 vehicles of tourists and locals were stuck but have now been safely brought out by the administration. Although landslides near Malwa on the Gangotri National Highway beyond Chinyalisaur caused blockages, combined efforts of BRO and local authorities cleared all vehicles.
This heavy snowfall at the end of January marks the first significant snow event in Uttarakhand this year, following a prolonged dry spell. Alpine areas such as Harshil, Gangotri, and Yamunotri recorded over three inches of snow accumulation. While the snowfall offered tourists picturesque views, it also led to road closures and disruptions in electricity and water supply. Across the state, more than 20 minor and major routes were affected, with ongoing efforts to reopen them.
District Magistrate Prashant Arya has urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel on slippery, narrow mountain roads until the weather stabilises. He advised everyone to stay alert, follow the weather department’s advisories, and contact the district disaster control room immediately in case of emergencies.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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