Kedarnath Yatra Suspended from August 12 to 14 Due to Heavy Rainfall in Uttarakhand. The administration has advised travelers to avoid unnecessary travel and remain vigilant near riverbanks. Relief efforts are underway.
Kedarnath Yatra Suspended: This year, the monsoon has wreaked havoc in Uttarakhand. Continuous heavy rainfall has disrupted daily life. Rivers are overflowing in many areas, incidents of cloudbursts are occurring, and the possibility of landslides remains. In light of this, the state government and administration have completely suspended the Kedarnath Yatra for August 12, 13, and 14. This decision has been taken keeping in mind the safety of travelers and local residents.
Situation of Heavy Rainfall in Uttarakhand
The monsoon has shown its full force in Uttarakhand this year. The incessant rainfall in the mountains has increased the water level of rivers and streams. In many places, rivers and streams have overflowed due to the rain, causing several areas to become waterlogged. People are worried about the damage to houses and shops, as well as for their animals. Many routes have been closed due to the rain, and traffic has been affected. Additionally, disasters such as landslides and waterlogging are also being witnessed due to cloudbursts.
Red Alert Issued by Meteorological Department
The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall across the state for August 12, 13, and 14. The department has clearly stated that due to heavy rainfall during these days, the situation of floods, landslides, and disaster may arise in many areas. Due to this, people have been appealed to not go out unnecessarily and to leave the house only when necessary.
Step Taken by Rudraprayag Administration
Rudraprayag District Magistrate (DM) Prateek Jain stated that the Kedarnath Yatra has been suspended for the next three days in view of the possibility of heavy rainfall. He said that this step was necessary for the safety of the travelers.
The DM said that according to the Meteorological Center, there will be heavy rainfall in many parts of the state during this period. Therefore, the potential danger has been averted by suspending the Yatra.
Disaster Management Preparations
The Rudraprayag administration has made all necessary preparations as per the instructions of the Disaster Management Department. JCB and Pokland machines have been deployed 24 hours in 'danger zones', i.e., vulnerable areas, so that relief work can be carried out immediately in case of any accident or road closure.
The water level of the river is being continuously monitored. The administration has instructed people living near the river to go to safe places. Also, teams are ready to carry out immediate rescue operations if needed.
Advisory for Travelers
Travelers are specifically advised not to undertake the Kedarnath Yatra at this time. If the journey is absolutely necessary, they should continuously monitor the weather information and follow the advice of the administration.
Travelers are advised to carry essential medicines, sufficient water, and food items with them. They should strictly follow safety rules during the journey and contact the administration or local authorities in case of any unusual situation.
