Severe Rainfall Causes Flooding and Landslides in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is grappling with severe flooding as continuous rainfall has caused major rivers, including the Ganges, to swell beyond warning levels. The state has closed over 100 roads due to landslides, and the Char Dham Yatra has been suspended. Authorities are urging residents to stay away from riverbanks and relocate to safer areas. An 'Orange Alert' has been issued for several districts, warning of heavy rainfall. Read on to learn more about the situation and the measures being taken.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2026, 04:38 IST

Impact of Continuous Rainfall in Uttarakhand

On July 29, Dehradun experienced significant rainfall, leading to swollen rivers, including the Ganges, across most regions of Uttarakhand. In several areas, the water levels of rivers exceeded warning thresholds or approached them closely. According to the state emergency operations center, the adverse weather conditions have resulted in the suspension of the Char Dham Yatra, while over 100 roads in the state have been closed due to landslides.

The central authorities reported that a total of 109 roads are currently blocked due to landslides, with efforts underway to clear them. The Tyuni-Masuri-Maletha National Highway is closed near Nagthat due to a landslide. Additionally, the pedestrian route from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri has been damaged near the Ram Temple due to rising river levels.

Alternative arrangements have been made for transportation. In Haridwar, the Ganges River's water level was recorded at 292.90 meters, just 0.10 meters below the warning level and 1.10 meters below the danger mark. In Rudraprayag, both the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers have surpassed warning levels.

The Alaknanda is flowing at 626.18 meters, slightly above the 626-meter warning level, while the Mandakini is over half a meter above its 625-meter warning threshold. In Pithoragarh district, the Kali River's water level stands at 888.90 meters, just 0.10 meters below the 889-meter warning level. Authorities have advised residents to stay away from riverbanks and urged those living in coastal areas to relocate to safer locations.

Meanwhile, the Char Dham Yatra remains suspended due to ongoing rainfall and landslides. The administration had already imposed a travel ban for July 28 and 29. The meteorological department has issued an 'Orange Alert' for Thursday, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in the districts of Bageshwar, Nainital, Champawat, and Pithoragarh.

Officials have instructed the respective district administrations to remain vigilant and ensure all necessary precautionary measures are in place.