A severe landslide, triggered by a cloudburst, struck a labour camp near Silai Band in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand late on Saturday night, leaving nine workers missing. The incident occurred along the Barkot–Yamunotri Highway, a crucial route for the Char Dham Yatra. At the time of the landslide, 19 labourers were present in the camp. Rescue teams have successfully pulled out 10 of them, while the search continues for the remaining nine. Tragically, two bodies have been recovered from a nearby hotel construction site. The victims, many of whom hailed from different parts of India, have been identified, and search-and-rescue operations remain in full swing, involving teams from the NDRF, SDRF, local police, and the health department.
In response to the ongoing heavy rainfall and hazardous conditions, authorities have temporarily suspended the Char Dham Yatra for 24 hours. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the region, warning of continued heavy rain that could result in further landslides and flash floods. Pilgrims en route to the sacred shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath have been instructed to halt their journey and take shelter at safe locations. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and State Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey have urged the public to avoid travel until weather conditions improve.
The situation has severely affected the region’s infrastructure. A 10–12-meter stretch of the Yamunotri Highway has been completely washed away, effectively cutting off access to several remote areas. In total, at least 72 roads have been blocked due to landslides and debris, isolating over 40,000 residents across the Kumaon region. The government has imposed a night-time travel ban in vulnerable districts and initiated urgent efforts to restore connectivity. Meanwhile, emergency personnel continue clearing debris, searching for the missing, and providing essential aid to those stranded.
This calamity highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Uttarakhand’s mountainous terrain during the monsoon season. While the region is known for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty, it remains highly susceptible to natural disasters, especially during periods of intense rainfall. Authorities are on high alert, and operations will be reviewed before resuming the Char Dham pilgrimage, possibly by Monday, depending on weather conditions and road safety assessments. The state government is urging everyone to prioritize safety and cooperate with emergency instructions during this critical time.