Cloudburst in Uttarakhand: Kedarnath Trek Route Damaged, More Than 100 Pilgrims Stranded

Heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand since Wednesday morning has led to a cloudburst in the Bhim Bali area along the Kedarnath trek route. The cloudburst has caused significant damage, with large amounts of debris and boulders blocking the path and approximately 30 meters of the trek route severely damaged. About 150-200 pilgrims are reported to be stranded in the area. Following the incident, movement on the trek route has been halted. No reports of casualties have emerged so far. Continuous rainfall has caused the Mandakini River in Kedarnath to rise rapidly. Rescue teams have been deployed at the site, and the Gauri Mai Temple has been evacuated due to the rising water levels, with all individuals moved to safety. The parking area has also been cleared. The SDRF, NDRF, and police are present at the scene, and the Disaster Management Department is on high alert. Hospitals have been instructed to remain on alert due to the ongoing heavy rains. Rudraprayag District Magistrate Saurabh Gaharwar reported that the cloudburst near Bhim Bali has washed out 20-25 meters of the footpath, with large boulders obstructing the way. Approximately 200 pilgrims have been safely sheltered at the GMVN in Bhim Bali. No casualties have been reported. The region is experiencing severe water overflow, with rivers and streams swelling across the state. In Tehri district, a cloudburst has resulted in two deaths and one injury.