Uttarakhand Battles Relentless Rain: 69 Roads Shut Down

Uttarakhand is grappling with significant disruptions due to relentless monsoon rains, which have caused landslides and swollen rivers, leading to widespread damage. As of Sunday, at least 69 roads across the state remain completely closed, impacting transport and public infrastructure. Emergency services, district administrations, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are on high alert, engaged in relief and restoration efforts.

In Dehradun, heavy rainfall caused a retaining wall to collapse, damaging nearby houses and trapping a resident who was safely rescued. Several families were evacuated as a precautionary measure, and the affected zone was sealed. Meanwhile, a temporary bridge on the Dehradun-Paonta Sahib road was partially washed away. Landslides also blocked the Mussoorie-Dehradun highway, stranding commuters.

Rivers like the Yamuna and Tons are flowing near warning levels, requiring barrages to regulate excess water discharge. In Uttarkashi, a landslide blocked the Yamunotri National Highway, disrupting agricultural produce transportation. Restoration work is underway for damaged roads and water supply projects. The state meteorological department has issued a yellow alert for isolated heavy rainfall in several districts, with forecasts of thunderstorms and intense rain spells.

In Champawat district, a landslide-hit road was reopened after three days. Authorities are continuously monitoring conditions to ensure safe movement during the monsoon season and appeal to residents to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather. The weather department has forecast intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms across the state in the coming days.