The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in seven districts of Uttarakhand—Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Champawat, Haridwar, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar—from June 29 through July 1. The alert comes as monsoon activity strengthens across the Himalayan state, raising concerns over landslides, flooding, and rising river levels.
According to the IMD Director, Bikram Singh, several other districts including Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar have also been warned of multiple spells of intense rainfall over the next three days. Residents have been advised to stay alert even during nighttime, avoid going near rivers and streams, and postpone travel to hilly areas unless absolutely necessary.
In Srinagar, the Alaknanda River’s water level has surged, prompting the local administration to alert riverside residents. The rising river poses a threat of flash floods in low-lying areas if heavy rain continues.
The impact of the downpour has already been severe, with over 72 roads across the state reported blocked due to landslides and debris. Chamoli district has been the worst-hit, with 21 road closures. The Badrinath Highway remains shut at Parthadip and Sirohbagad since late Saturday night, while traffic has been stranded in Sonla due to muddy conditions.
In Karanprayag, the Nainital Highway near Randoli has also been blocked by debris flow from a nearby stream, trapping travelers on both sides of the road. Some individuals are reportedly navigating the hazardous path on foot by crossing over the debris.
Other key routes affected include:
-
Yamunotri Highway at Paligaad, Kuthnor, and Jhajhargad
-
Gangotri Highway at Netala, Bishanpur, Laldhang, and Naluna
Emergency response teams and public works departments are working to clear the debris and restore connectivity, but continued rainfall may delay these efforts. Travelers and residents across the state are urged to remain cautious and follow weather advisories closely as monsoon intensity persists.
