The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand over the next four days, with districts such as Uttarkashi, Tehri, Bageshwar, Dehradun, and Rudraprayag expected to be affected. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted an aerial survey on Sunday of the Silai Band and Ojhari Band areas of Uttarkashi district, which have been severely impacted by recent heavy rains. Several parts of the Yamunotri National Highway have been washed away due to rain, affecting both travel and the Char Dham pilgrimage.
Travel Disruption Due to Road Washout
The Chief Minister was accompanied by the state BJP president Mahendra Bhatt. According to the administration, the Yamunotri Highway is completely obstructed at two locations between Silai Band and Ojhari. The roadway washout has halted vehicular movement, causing inconvenience to pilgrims.
Repair work on the road is being expedited. On Friday, work on the valley bridge construction in Ojhari has begun. Construction materials are being transported to Silai Band by vehicle, and from there they are being manually moved to the site.
Chief Minister Dhami has directed officials to complete the reconstruction of the bridge and routes as soon as possible to restore travel for locals and devotees. Following this, CM Dhami visited Corbett National Park, where he enjoyed a jungle safari and reiterated the state government's commitment to environmental preservation and promoting eco-tourism.
'A Tree in Mother's Name'
At this event, more than 1,000 saplings were planted under the 'A Tree in Mother's Name' campaign, with the help of the forest department, local community, and environmental enthusiasts. The CM described it as a tribute to motherhood and nature, urging everyone to strengthen their connection with nature.