Tragic Landslide in Uttarakhand Claims Lives of Two Pilgrims
Landslide on Kedarnath Trek Results in Fatalities
A landslide near the Junglechatti stream on the Kedarnath trekking route in Uttarakhand led to the unfortunate deaths of two individuals on Wednesday, while three others, including a woman, sustained injuries. According to reports from the Rudraprayag police headquarters, the incident occurred around 11 AM, and the injured were promptly transported for medical treatment.
Details of the Incident
As per information, debris and rocks fell from the hillside near the stream, impacting several travelers and porters passing through the area, causing them to tumble into a ravine. Emergency teams from the police and district disaster management quickly arrived at the scene to rescue those trapped. Among the injured, one woman suffered minor injuries, while two men were critically hurt and were sent to Gaurikund for further medical care. Efforts are underway to identify the deceased.
Injuries Reported
Rudraprayag Superintendent of Police Akshay Prahlad Konde confirmed that upon receiving news of the landslide, police and disaster response teams rushed to the site to assist the affected individuals. He reported that two people died at the scene, while three others, including a woman, were injured. The woman had minor injuries, whereas the seriously injured men were referred to a health center in Gaurikund.
Precautions Advised
The Rudraprayag police stated that at approximately 11:20 AM, debris and stones fell from the upper hill near Junglechatti, trapping some travelers and porters. Local police and disaster response teams acted swiftly to rescue the injured. The identities of the deceased pilgrims have yet to be confirmed. Authorities have urged all travelers to exercise caution while navigating hilly paths and to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the administration.
Helicopter Crash Near Kedarnath
Earlier, a helicopter crash near Kedarnath resulted in the deaths of all seven individuals on board, including a two-year-old child and the pilot. The helicopter had taken off for Guptkashi around 5:30 AM but crashed shortly after takeoff due to poor visibility caused by inclement weather, as reported by Nandan Singh Rajwar, the district disaster management officer.
Additional Incidents
According to sources, a helicopter from Aryan Aviation Private Limited crashed in the Kedargati area between Gaurikund and Trijuginarayan, igniting a fire. On the same day, another landslide occurred, resulting in one death and two injuries, leading to a temporary halt in the pilgrimage activities.
Pilgrimage Season Overview
The Char Dham Yatra commenced on April 30, 2025, with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples on Akshaya Tritiya. The Kedarnath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, opened on May 2, followed by the Badrinath temple on May 4. These high-altitude temples attract millions of pilgrims annually and typically remain open for about six months, closing around October or November due to harsh winter conditions.