Dehradun/Rishikesh: The Ganga river in Rishikesh is flowing just below the warning level after continuous heavy rainfall since last night, prompting authorities to issue safety alerts and intensify monitoring efforts. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police teams have been deployed in sensitive areas, advising the public to stay in safe zones as a red alert for very heavy rainfall remains in effect for multiple districts across Uttarakhand.
“Teams have been deployed in sensitive areas and people have been alerted. We are also making announcements at the Triveni Ghat,” said Head Constable Harish of the Water Police, speaking to ANI.
Ganga Close to Warning Level
Officials said the Ganga is currently at 1.38 cm below the warning mark, raising fears of flooding in Rishikesh, Muni Ki Reti, and Laxman Jhula. Patrolling has been ramped up and continuous announcements are being made to warn tourists and residents.
Red and Orange Alerts Issued
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Dehradun has issued a red alert for very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls in Dehradun, Uttarkashi, and Tehri Garhwal districts for Tuesday.
An orange alert has been issued for Pauri Garhwal, Champawat, Nainital, and Rudraprayag.
A yellow alert has been extended to other districts, including Chamoli, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Almora, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar.
Landslides and Infrastructure Disruption
The Yamunotri National Highway was blocked at two places between Silai Band and Ojri due to landslides that washed out portions of the road. Uttarkashi SP Sarita Dobhal inspected the area and reviewed ongoing safety and rescue efforts.
“SP Uttarkashi Sarita Dobhal inspected various landslide zones on the Yamunotri National Highway and assessed safety management today,” Uttarkashi Police posted on X.
Meanwhile, Tehri Garhwal recorded 79.2 mm of rainfall on Sunday, as per the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA). The downpour disrupted electricity and water supply in areas like Agrakhaal, Chamba, Jakhindhar, and Dughamandar.
Authorities on High Alert
Rescue teams and disaster response units remain on standby as rains continue to batter the state. With water levels rising and landslides affecting transportation and infrastructure, officials have urged extreme caution, especially in low-lying and landslide-prone regions.