Heavy monsoon rains have triggered a series of deadly landslides along key Char Dham pilgrimage routes.A devastating landslide struck the Kedarnath Yatra route near Junglechatti ghat in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district on Wednesday morning, killing at least two people and leaving one person missing. The incident occurred at approximately 11:20 a.m., as massive boulders tumbled down the mountainside onto the crowded trekking path.
According to rescue officials, the falling rocks hit multiple pilgrims, porters, and palanquin operators navigating the sacred trail during peak footfall. The injured included a woman and two men, who were quickly moved to nearby health centres for treatment.
-
Fatalities: 3 confirmed (including a 12‑year‑old girl named Bhavika from Delhi and another unidentified pilgrim); 1 remains missing.
-
Injured: Rasik from Mumbai was rescued alive and is in stable condition at Jankichatti Primary Health Centre.
-
Rescue efforts: Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police responded immediately, initiating search and rescue operations.
“One person is still feared missing. Search operations are ongoing,” said Sector Officer Bhim Bali.
Inspector Karn Singh from the SDRF led the rescue, working alongside local police to manage the dangerous situation. An SDRF spokesperson emphasized the ongoing risks:
“The area has witnessed several rockfall incidents recently, so travellers must remain cautious.”
Official Response
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed grief and directed the administration to ensure swift relief and medical assistance to all affected. He reiterated the government’s commitment to safety on pilgrimage routes, especially during the ongoing yatra season, when landslides and weather conditions pose constant risks.
⚠️ Wider Risk and Safety Measures
-
Chamoli tehsil recorded peak rainfall (~93.66 mm), significantly increasing landslide hazards
-
Authorities have closed high‑risk areas temporarily and urge pilgrims to stay vigilant, monitor weather alerts, and avoid travel during heavy rain
-
Since April 30, the pilgrimage season has already seen close to 130 deaths—over 60 alone on the Kedarnath route—mainly due to landslides and health issues such as cardiac arrests
This incident once again highlights the fragile terrain of the Himalayan pilgrimage routes, especially during monsoon or landslide-prone months. Pilgrims are advised to stay updated through official channels and avoid high-risk zones during adverse weather alerts.
