Uttarakhand rains: Alaknanda, Mandakini breach danger mark; schools shut in 3 districts

Uttarakhand Rains: Rivers Breach Danger Mark, Schools Closed

Theindiapostdaily.com – Heavy Uttarakhand rains have triggered widespread flooding concerns across the Himalayan state, with multiple rivers surging past their danger thresholds. Educational institutions in three districts have been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure while authorities monitor water levels and prepare for potential emergencies. The Alaknanda, Mandakini, and Bhagirathi rivers all recorded elevated readings on Thursday, while the Raisi or Banganga stream in Haridwar district also exceeded its cautionary level.

River Levels Reach Critical Points

Data from the Central Water Commission reveals that the Alaknanda river at Rudraprayag reached 627 metres by early morning, precisely matching its danger threshold. Water levels continued their upward climb throughout the day. The Mandakini river similarly breached safety limits, registering 626.20 metres at 7 am against a danger mark of 626 metres—representing a margin of 0.20 metres above the critical point.

At Devprayag, the Bhagirathi maintained a steady upward trajectory, reaching 462 metres which corresponds to its warning level. Meanwhile, in Haridwar district, the Raisi or Banganga River touched 230.09 metres, just 0.09 metres beyond its cautionary benchmark. These readings indicate sustained precipitation across the region over the past 48 hours.

Transport Networks Face Major Disruptions

Transport infrastructure suffered significant damage as debris and landslides blocked several national highways connecting major towns. The Badrinath route experienced complete closure near Helang in Chamoli district following substantial rockfall onto the carriageway. Travelers attempting to reach the sacred Badrinath temple found their journey severely hampered.

The Gangotri Highway was also shut near Dharasu Nalupani in Uttarkashi district, affecting pilgrims and tourists heading toward the Gangotri glacier. Multiple sections of the Yamunotri National Highway became impassable, including areas at Silai Band, Durbil, Jangalchatti, and Sayanachatti due to accumulated debris and slope failures.

Officials have advised all travelers to postpone non-essential journeys until weather conditions improve and highway clearance operations are completed across affected routes.

Emergency Response and Public Advisories

Rudraprayag District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar directed staff to maintain full readiness for potential emergencies. Local authorities received comprehensive instructions to deploy loudspeakers for warning riverside communities and recommending relocation to elevated ground when necessary. Emergency response teams have been positioned at strategic locations along vulnerable riverbanks.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami consulted extensively with Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman regarding the developing crisis. Both officials emphasized the need for rapid response capabilities across all relevant departments, including forest, irrigation, and public works departments. Livemint India news has been tracking these developments closely.

Suman highlighted that the India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert covering Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar districts for Thursday’s heavy precipitation. A yellow warning continues for remaining areas of Uttarakhand, indicating moderate rainfall expected through the weekend.

The chief minister encouraged both locals and visitors to postpone unnecessary journeys and verify current weather patterns and highway status before departing. Tourist operators have been asked to inform their clients about potential itinerary changes and alternative arrangements.

As a preventive step, educational facilities through Class 12 stayed shut on Thursday in Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar districts following the intensified rainfall warning. This decision ensures student safety while parents and guardians assess local conditions.

Weather Forecast and Future Outlook

Meteorological experts predict that rainfall may continue through Friday, with gradual improvement expected by Saturday. The orange alert remains in effect for the three most affected districts, while yellow warnings extend to other hill stations and valleys. Tourism officials have advised against mountain treks and river rafting activities until further notice.

Local communities have been urged to remain vigilant and report any unusual water level changes or landslide activity to district authorities immediately. Emergency helplines have been activated across all three districts to assist residents and visitors during this period of heightened risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which districts have schools closed due to Uttarakhand rains?

Schools through Class 12 have been closed in Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar districts as a precautionary measure against heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

Are national highways currently open in Uttarakhand?

Several sections of the Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri national highways remain closed due to landslides and debris. Travelers should check with local authorities before planning journeys.

What is the current weather alert status?

An orange alert covers Dehradun, Chamoli, and Bageshwar districts, while yellow warnings extend to other areas of Uttarakhand through the weekend.

When can normal activities resume?

Weather experts predict gradual improvement by Saturday, with most highways expected to reopen by Sunday depending on clearance operations.