Uttarakhand rain alert: Landslide on Kedarnath Highway; travel advisory issued
A devastating landslide struck the Kedarnath National Highway in Uttarakhand, resulting in the death of a driver and injuries to five pilgrims from Chhattisgarh. The incident occurred near Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district, a key route to the Kedarnath Temple. Authorities are urging travelers to avoid visiting higher altitudes in Uttarakhand due to ongoing heavy rains and unstable weather conditions.
In a tragic turn of events, a landslide on the Kedarnath National Highway in Uttarakhand, has left one dead. As per news reports, five people are injured. The incident occurred on Thursday near Kund, near the town of Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district.
It is one of prime transit points for devotees and pilgrims towards the revered Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
As per officials, because of the landslide, huge debris fell onto a vehicle which was carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh. The debris crushed the vehicle and immediately killed the car driver and injured five passengers. The deceased, a 38-year-old Rajesh Singh Rawat, was a resident of Lambgaon in Tehri Garhwal district.
He was taking a group of young pilgrims from Durg, Chhattisgarh, to Kedarnath.
Emergency response teams, including the Station Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local administration personnel, quickly reached the location. Rescue operations were carried out promptly, with the injured rushed to Augustmuni Hospital. Among them, two suffered serious injuries, while three others had minor wounds. The injured, aged between 19 and 25, are currently under medical supervision.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn
IC Markets
Đăng ký
Undo
It is no news that its monsoon season, which is considered extremely dangerous in the hills. There's always the risk of landslides and flash floods. The incident comes amid ongoing heavy rains and unstable weather conditions across the Himalayan region.
Keeping the current weather situation in mind, local authorities have issued advisories urging travellers to reconsider plans to visit higher altitudes in Uttarakhand over the coming days.
Krishna Mishra, a scientist at the India Meteorological Department (IMD), said, "Extreme weather may cause strong winds, rain in Himachal Pradesh on May 31 and June 1; and in Uttarakhand on May 30, 31, and June 1. Travel to these regions should be avoided until weather conditions improve.'
Tourists and pilgrims planning to visit the Char Dham circuit—including Kedarnath—are strongly advised to check current weather updates and take government advisories seriously before venturing into the hills.
The monsoon season in Uttarakhand often makes travel in hilly terrains hazardous.
There have been several tragic incidents in the past as well. These all a stark reminder of the dangers posed by nature. Travellers and pilgrims are urged to exercise caution, ensure proper planning, and stay informed through official sources before heading towards high-altitude regions during the monsoons.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Flight operations to begin from airport's new terminal tomorrow
Patna: The long wait is over. Flyers to and from Patna will now experience world-class amenities as the newly constructed terminal building of Jayprakash Narayan International Airport opens to the public on Tuesday (June 3). The two-storey terminal, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the first, is built to accommodate 3,000 passengers at peak hours – 1,500 on each floor. Spread across 65,150 square metres, the facility boasts five aerobridges and 11 boarding gates to ensure smooth boarding and disembarkation. Passengers will benefit from modern comforts, including spacious lounges, varied dining options, retail outlets and enhanced seating areas. According to Airports Authority of India (AAI) officials, all flight operations will shift to the new terminal from 7am on June 3. "This milestone is a significant upgrade in infrastructure, designed to improve both the quality of service for travellers and operational efficiency. The shifting process from the existing terminal to the new facility is in the final stage," said an official. The terminal houses 64 check-in counters, nine automatic tray retrieval systems (ATRS), Digi Yatri gates for contactless travel, security checks on the first floor and four conveyor belts in the arrivals hall. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo With this expansion, the annual passenger handling capacity will rise from 25 lakh to 1 crore. The new apron accommodates 11 aircraft (nine Code C-A320 and two ATR), of which seven parking bays have been constructed so far. "The remaining parking bays will be constructed after demolishing the old terminal. The base for four aerobridges will come up at the same location to provide direct connectivity with the apron," the official added. The terminal is equipped to manage 75 arrivals and 75 departures daily. Presently, the airport handles 98 aircraft movements with two new flights added on Sunday. Uma Shankar, deputy general manager (ATM) and safety investigation coordinator at Patna airport, said, "Air India Express on Sunday started two flights, one each for Guwahati and Hyderabad. Total arrivals and departures have increased to 98. Once operations begin at the new terminal, airlines will increase services. At present, we have not received proposals for any new routes or international flights." The terminal's design pays tribute to Bihar's rich cultural heritage with traditional artwork, murals and carvings. Inspired by the ruins of Nalanda, the building includes an insulated roofing system, LED lighting and heat-minimising glazing for energy efficiency, targeting a 4-star GRIHA eco-rating. A new entrance gate has been built for the terminal. Departing passengers will take the flyover to reach the departure level while arriving passengers will exit directly from the arrivals area. The multilevel car park (MLCP) on the city side will also open from June 3, offering space for 1,100 vehicles. Parking fees remain unchanged. Buses will be charged Rs 30 for 30 minutes and Rs 70 for up to two hours; SUVs, cars and minibuses Rs 20 for 30 minutes and Rs 60 for up to two hours. For cars, the fee is Rs 55 for two hours and two-wheelers will be charged Rs 10 for half an hour and Rs 15 for up to two hours. Commercial vehicles in the pick-up zone will incur a fee of Rs 40 with a penalty of Rs 500 if they exceed a seven-minute stay.
India.com
an hour ago
- India.com
5 Hidden Villages Near Shimla For Ultimate Peace And Serenity
The hill station Shimla serves as the capital of Himachal Pradesh where people travel to enjoy its colonial atmosphere and mountain views together with refreshing temperatures. The surrounding villages create a peaceful atmosphere to escape from urban noise even though the city between these villages offers many attractions. Rural villages surrounding the area offer travelers an authentic Himachal Pradesh experience that combines magnificent scenery and ancient traditions with traditional local greetings. The following list presents seven peaceful villages that stand near Shimla. A Serene Retreat Visitors can discover Chail as it rests about 45 kilometers from Shimla in the Shivalik Hills. Chail stands out due to its verdant landscapes combined with Himalayan Mountain vistas and orchards of apple trees that create a perfect peaceful environment. A special attraction within the village is its status as the home of the planet's tallest cricket playing field. Visitors can see a former royal Chail Palace at its present location as a heritage hotel. Going through dense forest trails or relaxing in a spotless environment are both possible enjoyment options for visitors. Nature's Paradise From Shimla one can reach the attractive village of Kufri which stands out for its snowy mountains in winter and its flowering pastures in summer. The place welcomes many adventure seekers because it offers them the chance to trek and ski and ride horses. Everyone enjoys photographing the surrounding valleys from the Mahasu Peak which stands near Kufri. People finding tranquility will find complete rest in Kufri thanks to its quiet trails and peaceful settings. Apple Orchards Galore Narkanda stands as a tranquil village 64 kilometers from Shimla which draws its fame from its apple orchards and impressive deodar forests. Narkanda serves as the primary destination for those seeking experiences with the apples as it earned its nickname 'Apple Bowl of Himachal.' Those who visit Hatu Peak at its 3,400-meter height can see the entire Himalayan range with their eyes. When winter arrives Kufri welcomes numerous tourists who come to see and experience snow-covered landscapes. You can find adventure alongside solitude in Narkanda since this destination welcomes all types of vacationers. A Hidden Gem Located 20 kilometers distant from Shimla, Fagu provides visitors with an unknown village experience that offers exclusive serenity. People looking for privacy will find Fagu ideal because it exists within dense pine trees and rolling landscapes. Visitors to this town can experience local culture and taste typical cuisine at the numerous comfortable homestays throughout the area. Adventure lovers should trek the nearby trails and all nature devotees will find joy in witnessing the wilderness that remains completely pristine. Fagu showcases an immaculate appeal which qualifies it as an essential stop for people searching for tranquil rest. A Step Back in Time The historical traditional village Junga exists about 25 kilometers distant from Shimla's city center. Devotees from all across the region visit the Shakti Temple at this location since this religious site originally appeared numerous centuries ago. The traditional aspect of Himachal Pradesh emerges from the streets paved with cobblestones and wooden houses coupled with terraced farming fields in Junga. Multiple waterfalls together with natural springs provide the village with an ideal spot for travelers to unwind. Visiting Junga creates an experience that transports visitors into an era which feels distant from contemporary world mayhem. Why Choose These Villages? People visiting Shimla will find unique experiences at these surrounding villages because they enable adventure activities and natural exploration alongside contact with regional traditions. The villages stand as refreshing alternatives to the tourist congestion in the city so visitors can find emotional peace with the people and nature surrounding them. The welcoming spirit of local people enhances the experience combined with the opportunity to stay in homestays. Tips for Visiting These Villages Choose the right time of year since summer delivers gentle weather but winter gifts specific villages with snowy enchantment. Reserving accommodation in private local houses enables cultural understanding while promoting green tourism. Travel with comfortable walking footwear as well as warm apparel because of winter conditions and also provide yourself with equipment needed for trekking when planning trail exploration. You must understand and observe the traditional customs of the local villagers to have respectful encounters. Light packing aids mobility because the roads within these villages are designed with narrow dimensions. Final Thoughts The locations surrounding Shimla function as natural_beauty sanctuaries preserving both cultural heritage and peaceful tranquility. The various destinations grant visitors an extraordinary experience which suits anyone seeking relaxation or exploration or basic rural simplicity. You should prepare your travel items before starting your discoveries of secluded attractions located beyond Shimla's crowded streets.
New Indian Express
2 hours ago
- New Indian Express
Valley of Flowers National park in Uttarakhand reopens for tourist season 2025
DEHRADUN: The Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, has officially opened its gates to tourists on Sunday marking the beginning of its annual season. On the inaugural day, a total of 83 tourists made their way into the breathtaking floral expanse from Ghangharia, the final outpost before the valley, at seven in the morning. The park recorded 79 offline registrations and four online registrations, indicating a steady flow of early visitors eager to experience the Himalayan beauty. Speaking to TNIE, Chetna Kandpal, Forest Range Officer of the Uttarakhand Forest Department in Chamoli, emphasised the park's enduring popularity. "The Valley of Flowers remains a top preference for tourists visiting Uttarakhand. Thousands of visitors flock here annually. The valley is traditionally opened for tourist access on June 1st each year and then closed for the winter season on October 31." The valley, known for its breathtaking beauty, starts blooming with flowers after the snow melts, attracting a large number of tourists from across the globe. According to Kandpal, the valley's scenic beauty is a major draw for visitors, who flock to witness the vibrant flowers in bloom. "The Valley of Flowers is a major tourist attraction, and we're expecting a large influx of visitors this season. Repairs to the paths damaged by snowfall have been completed, and temporary bridges have been constructed over the seasonal streams," she said. Nestled high in the majestic Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand, India, stands as a breathtaking testament to nature's artistry. This renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its vibrant meadows of endemic alpine flowers, is situated at a staggering altitude of nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the world's most elevated floral sanctuaries. Located in the upper reaches of the Bhyundar Ganga, close to the pilgrimage town of Joshimath, the park forms a vital part of the expansive Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
