Uttarakhand Issues Snowfall and Avalanche Warning
The Uttarakhand meteorological department has issued a warning of snowfall and avalanches. Activities are restricted in areas above 2000 meters. Tourists are prohibited from entering mountainous regions until March 3rd.
Chamoli Avalanche: Increased Vigilance
The risk of snowfall and avalanches has increased in Uttarakhand. The meteorological department has issued a warning, stating that all activities in areas above 2000 meters have been suspended. The administration has instructed tourists, trekkers, and local residents to remain vigilant and stay in safe locations.
Following a major avalanche in the Mana area of Chamoli district on February 28th, which buried 54 workers, the administration has heightened its alert level. District Magistrate Ashish Bhatgaien has issued instructions completely prohibiting the movement of tourists and trekkers in areas above 2000 meters until March 3rd.
Disaster Management Team on High Alert
In view of this potential threat, the district administration has instructed the disaster management team to remain on high alert. Designated officers of the disaster management IRS system and departmental nodal officers have been instructed to be fully prepared to handle the situation.
Departments involved in road construction, such as NH, PMGSY, BRO, and Lonovi, have been instructed to immediately restore roads if they are obstructed due to avalanches or landslides. All police stations have also been instructed to remain on high alert, including having disaster management equipment and wireless communication readily available.
Landslides Affect Several Roads
The snowfall and rainfall in Uttarakhand have increased the risk of landslides in several areas. While the weather cleared on Sunday after rainfall and snowfall in Bageshwar district, bringing relief to the people, it also increased the risk of debris and landslides on roads.
In the Kapkot area, which falls under Zone-5, a sensitive zone for earthquakes and landslides, electricity, water, and communication services have been affected due to rain and snowfall. Several roads have been blocked by falling debris, and efforts are underway to clear them.
Landslide on Bhyun-Guler Motor Road
A landslide blocked the Bhyun-Guler motor road. A large amount of debris accumulated at kilometer two, requiring the deployment of a loader machine for removal. The road was reopened on Sunday. Similarly, a large amount of debris has accumulated between Kathani and Pagna on the Pagna motor road, and clearance work is ongoing.
Wedding Guests Stranded
Approximately 200 wedding guests attending a ceremony on Saturday were stranded due to a landslide. Late in the evening, the administration, with the help of a bridge construction crew, used a loader machine to clear the debris, rescuing the stranded individuals.
Disaster Management Report
According to District Disaster Officer Shikha Suyal, no major roads are currently closed. However, relief work continues to open roads affected by rain and snowfall. The administration is constantly monitoring the situation and will take necessary steps as required.
The Uttarakhand administration has appealed to local residents and tourists to follow the instructions of the meteorological department and avoid venturing into any risky areas. While all necessary safety measures have been taken in view of the deteriorating weather conditions, it is essential for citizens to remain vigilant.
