Tragic Landslide Hits Kedarnath Highway
A deadly landslide on the Kedarnath National Highway in Uttarakhand claimed one life and left five others injured on Thursday. The incident occurred near Kund, close to Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district, a key route for pilgrims traveling to the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Pilgrim Vehicle Crushed by Debris
According to officials, the landslide brought massive debris down on a vehicle carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh. Tragically, the driver, identified as 38-year-old Rajesh Singh Rawat from Tehri Garhwal, died on the spot. He was escorting a group of pilgrims from Durg, Chhattisgarh, to Kedarnath.
Five Injured, Rescue Operations Carried Out Swiftly
Emergency teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local authorities, quickly arrived at the scene. The five injured pilgrims, aged between 19 and 25, were taken to Augustmuni Hospital. Two of them are in serious condition while three others sustained minor injuries. All are currently under medical care.
Monsoon Season Poses High Risk in the Hills
The landslide occurred amid heavy rainfall in the region. The monsoon season in the Himalayas is notorious for triggering landslides, flash floods, and other natural disasters.
Due to unstable weather, local authorities have issued travel advisories, urging pilgrims and tourists to avoid high-altitude travel over the coming days.
IMD Issues Extreme Weather Warning
Krishna Mishra, a scientist from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), stated:
“Extreme weather with heavy rain and strong winds is expected in Uttarakhand on May 30, 31, and June 1, and in Himachal Pradesh on May 31 and June 1. Travel should be avoided until conditions improve.”
Pilgrims Urged to Stay Informed
Those planning to visit the Char Dham circuit, especially Kedarnath, are strongly advised to monitor weather updates, follow official advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel in hilly areas during the monsoon.
This tragic incident serves as a harsh reminder of the dangers of traveling in mountainous regions during extreme weather. Pilgrims and tourists are urged to plan carefully, stay alert, and prioritize safety at all times.
