Amidst forecasts of heavy rainfall, the Uttarkashi Police have issued a safety advisory urging residents and travelers to avoid rivers and drains. The advisory comes in response to recent incidents of cloudbursts and landslides that have already caused significant disruption and damage in the region.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts of Uttarakhand. An orange alert has been issued for some areas, with a yellow alert in place for Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Pauri, Tehri, Almora, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, and Udham Singh Nagar districts. These alerts indicate the possibility of further heavy rainfall, accompanied by lightning and thunderstorms.
The police advisory specifically cautions people against going near rivers and streams. With the Pinder River's water level continuously rising, Chamoli Police have already issued an alert to residents living along its banks in the Dharali district. The advisory also urges people to avoid unnecessary travel and movement on hilly roads. Landslides and road blockages are increasingly common during periods of heavy rain, making travel hazardous. The Gangotri and Yamunotri Highways have already experienced closures due to heavy rainfall.
In addition to avoiding waterways and unnecessary travel, the advisory emphasizes the importance of staying informed. Residents and travelers are encouraged to check weather updates regularly. The IMD provides regular forecasts and warnings that can help individuals make informed decisions about their safety. In case of any emergency, the advisory urges people to immediately inform the administration.
Recent events highlight the importance of heeding these warnings. A cloudburst near Silai Band on the Barkot-Yamunotri road triggered a landslide, leaving several people missing. In Uttarkashi's Syanachatti, the flow of the Yamuna River was disrupted due to debris, leading to the formation of a temporary lake and the evacuation of approximately 150 people. Furthermore, The Tharali-Gwaldam road and the Tharali-Sagwara road have been shut due to the debris and heavy rainfall, affecting traffic movement.
Authorities are taking steps to mitigate the impact of the heavy rainfall. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with police, fire services, and officials from irrigation and revenue departments, have been deployed to affected areas. These teams are involved in rescue operations, clearing debris, and providing assistance to those affected by the rains.
The Uttarkashi police's safety advisory is a crucial reminder of the dangers posed by heavy rainfall in the region. By staying away from rivers and drains, avoiding unnecessary travel, staying informed, and promptly reporting emergencies, residents and travelers can significantly reduce their risk during this period of inclement weather.
