Continuous rainfall in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand’s Garhwal division has disrupted normal life, with water levels in major rivers rising and authorities stepping up precautionary measures.
Garhwal Commissioner Anand Swaroop said several rain-related incidents have been reported during the ongoing monsoon season and urged people to remain cautious.
“We are experiencing heavy monsoon rains. Since this is the disaster-prone monsoon season, various incidents are occurring, and water levels in all major rivers have risen significantly,” Swaroop told ANI.
He said authorities have been directed to make regular public announcements and advise people against going near riverbanks or undertaking risky activities, including taking selfies near rivers.
Efforts are also underway to evacuate people living in vulnerable houses and shift them to safer locations, he said.
Swaroop said water levels were also high in Dehradun, particularly in the Tamsa, Tons and Asan rivers. The Rispana River is also carrying water due to heavy rainfall in the hills.
“In some places, daily rainfall exceeding 200 mm has been recorded,” he said.
The Commissioner also urged Char Dham pilgrims to remain cautious and follow safety instructions issued by the administration.
Despite the adverse weather conditions, the Char Dham Yatra is continuing smoothly, he said, adding that around 8,000 to 9,000 pilgrims are visiting the pilgrimage sites daily.
Swaroop said the number of pilgrims so far has exceeded last August’s figure by around five lakh.
District Magistrates have been authorised to temporarily suspend the pilgrimage, often for around 12 hours, depending on weather and road conditions, he said.
“The Char Dham Yatra is running smoothly; around 8,000 to 9,000 pilgrims are visiting daily, and the total number of pilgrims so far exceeds last August’s figures by 500,000,” he said.
The second phase of the Char Dham Yatra is scheduled to begin after September 15, when a large number of pilgrims are expected to arrive.
Swaroop said heavy rainfall can damage roads and other infrastructure, requiring reconstruction, and urged pilgrims to cooperate with authorities if their movement is temporarily restricted.
Holding areas have been established at several locations for pilgrims who may need to wait during adverse conditions. These facilities have been equipped with basic amenities, including toilets and water supply.
The Commissioner advised pilgrims to remain in designated safe areas and resume their journey only after receiving permission from the administration.
-ANI
