The Char Dham Yatra has been temporarily suspended for 24 hours due to relentless rainfall across Uttarakhand.
The decision, announced on Sunday by officials, comes in light of worsening weather and the risk of landslides, particularly in the Garhwal region.
Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed the move, stating, “The Yatra has been postponed for a day in view of continuous heavy rainfall and the possibility of landslides. This step is vital for safeguarding lives and property.”
Advisories issued to pilgrims
Authorities have urged devotees not to proceed towards the four major shrines—Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri—until weather conditions improve.
Pilgrims currently en route have been advised to remain in their current locations and follow updates from local administrations.
Pandey added that district administrations have been placed on high alert, and rescue and relief teams are active and prepared.
“Further decisions on travel will be taken after reviewing weather and road conditions tomorrow,” he said.
The suspension follows a cloudburst near Silai Band on the Barkot-Yamunotri road in Uttarkashi.
The incident left at least nine labourers working at a hotel construction site missing.
Authorities fear they may have been swept away by a landslide caused by the cloudburst.
The Yamunotri National Highway has been blocked at several points, complicating relief efforts.
NH Barkot officials have been directed to manage road clearance and ensure communication lines remain open.
Multiple routes blocked across the state
Elsewhere, landslides have disrupted traffic on several key routes.
The highway near Nandprayag and the Sonprayag-Munkatiya road to Kedarnath remain shut due to landslides.
Pilgrims have been stopped at Sonprayag and Gaurikund to prevent any accidents due to unstable terrain.
In Syanachatti, debris has blocked drainage systems, affecting the flow of the Yamuna River and increasing flood risks for nearby hotels and low-lying settlements.
Heavy rains persist in Chamoli, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Dehradun, and the surrounding districts.
With river levels rising dangerously, the state administration has urged those residing near riverbanks to remain alert and take all necessary precautions.
The situation remains under close watch, with further updates expected after weather reassessment on Monday.
Also read: PM Modi Hails Pilgrimage Spirit & Service In 123rd ‘Mann Ki Baat’ Address
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