Heavy rainfall continued to batter Uttarakhand on Thursday, triggering a landslide along National Highway 707A in Tehri Garhwal district and prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal. The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of the Himalayan state during the monsoon season.
According to the Tehri Garhwal Disaster Management Department, the landslide occurred near Kaddukhal on NH-707A after excavation work reportedly destabilised a section of the hillside. The slide sent debris crashing onto the roadside, damaging an old vacant building near a row of shops. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported, but authorities immediately began assessing the stability of the area and monitoring the situation for further movement.
Officials said the affected stretch of the highway remained under close observation as heavy rainfall continued across several parts of the state. Local administration teams and disaster response personnel were deployed to clear debris and ensure the safety of commuters. Motorists travelling through the region have been advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve.
Meanwhile, the IMD issued a red alert for Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations over the next few hours. The weather agency said intense showers accompanied by thunderstorms could affect areas including Laksar, Manglaur, Khanpur, Kotdwar, Dugadda and nearby regions. Residents have been urged to stay indoors wherever possible and remain alert to official advisories.
Continuous rainfall has increased the risk of landslides, flash floods and road blockages across the hill districts. Authorities are keeping a close watch on vulnerable slopes, rivers and highways, particularly those frequently affected during the monsoon. Emergency response teams have also been placed on standby to deal with any further incidents caused by the adverse weather.
The latest landslide comes as Uttarakhand experiences another spell of intense monsoon activity, with several districts already reporting rain-related disruptions over the past week. Officials have appealed to tourists, pilgrims and local residents to follow weather updates and avoid travelling through landslide-prone areas unless absolutely necessary. With more rainfall forecast over the coming days, the state administration remains on high alert to minimise risks and respond quickly to any emergencies.
