Heavy rains take two lives in Uttarakhand; Badrinath-Rishikesh highway closed

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Two persons were killed and six people sustained grievous injuries as "Summer Rains" wreaked havoc near Peepal Kothi on the hilly areas of Uttarakhand and the Badrinath Highway. Seventeen more people were injured due to building damage and disintegrating debris. With the onset of these "Summer Rains" in many parts of India, cities and towns flood with heavy showers.

Per an ANI report, Due to the closure of the flooded Badrinath-Rishikesh route near Sirobagadh, travellers heading to Kedarnath and Badrinath are being halted at Srikot-Srinagar and Kaliyasod, which has resulted in extremely chaotic situations.

The Srinagar Kotwal Hoshiyar Singh Pankholi told ANI that they are taking utmost care in these dire situations to ensure the safety and security of the passengers by mitigating any problems they have or may face. However, because of the continuous debris falling in Sirobagadh, the road has not been opened yet, further adding to the fear and chaos amongst citizens of Uttarakhand.

To provide some respite to the panic-stricken citizens, Uttarakhand Police took to the social media platform X and wrote, "Due to continuous rain late at night, the national highway is blocked for traffic due to debris and stones falling from the hill near Sirobgadh situated on the border of Rudraprayag and Pauri districts. Its alternative route (via Chanti Khal) is also blocked."

While further details are awaited, Uttarakhand is yet to face the worst wrath of the Rain Gods. According to the India Meteorological Department forecast, thunderstorms along with heavy hailstorms predicted in Rudraprayag till Monday and rain in several parts of the State. With the situation worsening, the state is gearing up to face the storms and potential loss of power supply. The state urges all people to stay in their homes and avoid travelling or moving out in any way. This may also affect people's employment and day jobs especially that of the primary sector since their jobs require on-ground presence. With the coming days of turmoil, the Police and the government advise people to take all necessary precautions to ensure their well-being and safety.

(With Inputs from ANI)