Daijiworld Media Network - Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi, Aug 29: Continuous rainfall in the Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand has sharply increased landslide-prone zones along the Gangotri and Yamunotri highways. The Gangotri route, which witnessed devastating flash floods earlier this month, now has more danger spots, while new slide zones have also been reported on the Yamunotri highway.

According to officials, the two highways together now have 23 active landslide zones, compared to 16 last year. On the Gangotri highway (NH-34), the number of vulnerable sites has risen from 10 to 15, with fresh slide zones at Dharasu, Nalupani, Naluna and Dabrani. On the Yamunotri highway (NH-134), two new danger spots — Kalyani and Jangalchatti — have been added to the existing six.

Disaster management officer Shardul Gusain said persistent July–August rains have reactivated old zones and triggered new ones, raising risks for pilgrims and motorists. He noted that 15 danger zones are spread across 128 km of the Gangotri route, while eight zones were found along the 105 km Yamunotri stretch.

District magistrate Prashant Arya said protective works will start once rains subside. “Currently, the road near Yamunotri and Jangalchatti is closed, while repair work is ongoing in Harsil on the Gangotri route,” he added.

Meanwhile, the regional meteorological centre has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state till September 2, warning of fresh landslides and road blockages due to saturated hill slopes.

Gangotri MLA Suresh Chauhan said bypass routes have been proposed. “This valley — including Gangotri, Harsil, Nelang and Jadung — is strategically and touristically important. We must safeguard it,” he stated.

Expressing concern, Uttarkashi Hotel Association president Shailendra Matuda said tourism and pilgrimages to Gangotri and Yamunotri are vital for local livelihoods. “Urgent measures are needed to ensure the safety of roads and pilgrims,” he said.