June 30,2025 — A sudden cloudburst struck Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district late on Sunday, resulting in the death of three individuals and leaving six others unaccounted for. The incident occurred in the Mando village area near Gangotri, triggering flash floods and debris flow that damaged infrastructure and forced authorities to suspend the Char Dham Yatra.
According to official sources, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), along with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local administration, has launched intensive rescue and relief operations. However, heavy rainfall, landslides, and rough terrain are slowing down efforts.
In light of the hazardous conditions, the pilgrimage to the four revered shrines—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—has been temporarily suspended. Pilgrims en route have been advised to either return or remain in place until the situation stabilizes.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and stated that every effort is being made to locate the missing and assist the affected. “The safety of residents and pilgrims is our top priority. Rescue teams are working round the clock to manage the crisis,” he said.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in parts of Uttarakhand, including Uttarkashi and nearby districts. Authorities have advised citizens to avoid travel to the hills as more cloudbursts and landslides are likely under the current weather pattern.
Disaster management officials confirmed that several houses were damaged and multiple roads, including segments of the Gangotri National Highway, are blocked. Emergency shelters have been established, and medical assistance is being provided to those injured. Helicopters are on standby for evacuation as weather permits.
Experts have raised concerns over the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in the Himalayan region, attributing the trend to environmental degradation and climate change. They stressed the need for improved early warning systems and sustainable infrastructure development in disaster-prone zones.
The Char Dham Yatra, which attracts lakhs of devotees annually, has been disrupted several times in recent years due to weather-related incidents. The current halt comes as a precautionary measure to avoid further casualties.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Travelers and locals have been urged to remain alert and follow official advisories. The government is expected to review conditions before resuming the yatra.
