Uttarakhand: As monsoon arrives, focus on ‘safe routes’ for Char Dham yatra

DEHRADUN: Landslides have been a frequent occurrence in the hills of Uttarakhand during the monsoon season, often halting vehicle movement on Char Dham routes. To ensure the annual pilgrimage is not disrupted, officials are identifying and repairing routes that can serve as alternatives in case of road blockades during landslides. Sources indicate that around 60 such routes can be used as diversions.
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and PWD minister Satpal Maharaj have directed authorities to complete all necessary work as soon as possible.
The Badrinath route experiences the most traffic holdovers, including landslide-prone areas of Lambagad, Sirobagad, Chinkka, and Pagal Nala. The landslide-prone zones identified on the Yamunotri highway include Kisala-Khaneda, Ojari-Dabarkot, Silai Band, Paaligaad, Orcha Band, and Dobata. The Dabrani and Sunagar areas are among the pockets that have witnessed landslides on the Gangotri route.
CM Dhami said, “Firstly, the required machinery and manpower needed to clear debris must be deployed near locations prone to landslides. Locals should be involved and trained. Secondly, alternate routes need to be kept ready. District authorities have been directed to identify all such routes and complete repair work at the earliest.”