Dehradun, August 30(HS): The Char Dham pilgrimage routes in Uttarakhand remain closed due to extensive damage to road infrastructure, as search and rescue operations continue in the districts of Rudraprayag, Chamoli, and Bageshwar. In Uttarkashi, the route up to Dharali has been partially reopened for light vehicles.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami has directed authorities to accelerate rescue efforts and expedite the reopening of blocked roads. Local administrations have also been instructed to ensure swift distribution of relief materials.

According to the State Disaster Management Authority, heavy rainfall-induced floods on Friday have left approximately seven people missing across Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Bageshwar districts. The roadways to the Char Dham shrines remain obstructed.

The disaster authority reports that the Rishikesh-Badrinath and Rishikesh-Kedarnath highways are blocked near Vyasi. The Gangotri National Highway between Harshil and Dharali in Uttarkashi is open for light vehicles, but the route beyond Dharali remains closed. The Yamunotri highway is blocked at Junglechatti, Banas, and Naradchatti, with clearance work currently underway at Junglechatti.

In Tehri district, multiple points along the Budha Kedarnath-Seemant villages route from Genwali Jakhna are damaged. The Nailchami Patti’s Muyal village-Gauria Bhatwari road is also blocked due to landslides. Over a dozen villages are cut off, facing severe difficulties in travel and communication.

In Kumaon division’s Bageshwar district, intermittent drizzle continues, causing closure of 15 rural roads and two district roads. Given the weather warnings, the District Magistrate has ordered the closure of all schools—from first to twelfth grade—including both government and private institutions, as well as Anganwadi centers.

The persistent rains have inflicted widespread damage across Uttarakhand, compounding challenges for residents and officials alike.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar