Fresh efforts are underway in the rescue mission to evacuate the 41 workers trapped inside a collapsed tunnel in India's Uttarakhand. Our latest report looks at the multi-pronged strategy being pursued to save them from this harrowing ordeal.

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: First images of trapped workers surface | World News | WION

It's a race against time in India's northern state of Uttarakhand where a rescue mission is underway that has been suspended for a while.

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: Rescuers considering opening vertical shaft to free 41 men | World DNA

It's a race against time in India's Northern State of Uttarakhand where a rescue mission is underway that has been suspended for a while.

India: Day 8 of rescue operations| New heavy drill flown into tunnel site

India: Day 7 of rescue operations after Uttarakhand tunnel collapse

Several people are feared to be trapped after a tunnel collapsed in India's Uttarakhand. Part of the tunnel under construction from the Silkyara to Dandalgaon collapsed in Uttarkashi. The District Magistrate and the Superintendent of police of Uttarkashi District along with Uttarakhand's State Disaster Response force and police rescue teams are present at the spot. Rescue operations are currently underway as confirmed by the Chief Minister who also reacted to the incident.

India: Day 5 of Uttarakhand tunnel collapse

<p>India has asked for advice from the Thai company that successfully rescued children from a flooded cave in 2018 as it races against time to save 40 men trapped in a road tunnel, officials were cited as saying on Wednesday (Nov 15).</p>

<p>Indian excavators have been removing the debris since Sunday morning (Nov 12) from a site in Uttarakhand state to create an escape tunnel for the workers, all of whom are currently alive.</p>

<p>Officials have "contacted the Thai company which rescued the children trapped in the cave", Uttarakhand's department of public relations said in an official statement while referring to a rescue operation to rescue 12 boys from a junior football team and their coach who were trapped for more than two weeks in the Tham Luang cave complex in 2018.</p>

<h2><strong>State govt reaches&nbsp;out to experts from Norway&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Uttarakhand state authorities have also asked for help from the engineering experts in soil and rock mechanics at the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute as efforts to free the men continued into a fourth day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-tunnel-mishap-how-will-a-3-ft-pipe-rescue-trapped-labourers-658688">Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: How will a 3-ft pipe rescue trapped labourers?</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, medicine was sent to the 40 men trapped in the road tunnel they were building.</p>

<p>"After consultation with doctors, medicine has been sent to the workers through pipes," police officer Prashant Kumar was quoted as saying by the AFP from the site. "Contact is being maintained with the workers."</p>

<h2><b>Rescue ops continue on 'war footing'</b></h2>

<p>Food and oxygen had also been sent to the trapped workers, he said.</p>

<p>The pace of drilling was "slow because of natural causes", but efforts were being made on a "war footing", Uttarakhand state police chief Ashok Kumar said in a statement on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The air force on Wednesday flew in a second drilling machine on a C-130 Hercules military plane on Wednesday to "speed up rescue work" after the first one broke down, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: Rescue mission enters day 4</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uttarakhand-tunnel-collapse-rescue-mission-enters-day-4-658894/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Engineers are using heavy machinery to drive a steel pipe about 90 centimetres (nearly three feet) wide through the debris, wide enough for the trapped men to get out from.</p>

<p>"We should keep our patience and trust," Ashok Kumar was quoted as saying by the AFP.</p>

<p>"I am sure that we will rescue all the labourers."</p>

<p>The 4.5-kilometre (2.7-mile) tunnel was being constructed between the towns of Silkyara and Dandalgaon to connect Uttarkashi and Yamunotri, two of the holiest Hindu shrines.</p>

<p>The tunnel is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's road project aimed at improving travel conditions between some of the most popular Hindu shrines in the country as well as areas along the Line of Actual Control with China.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India has asked for advice from the Thai company that successfully rescued children from a flooded cave in 2018 as it races against time to save 40 men trapped in a road tunnel, officials were cited as saying on Wednesday (Nov 15).

India has asked for advice from the Thai company that successfully rescued children from a flooded cave in 2018 as it races against time to save 40 men trapped in a road tunnel, officials were cited as saying on Wednesday (Nov 15). Indian excavators have been removing the debris since Sunday morning (Nov 12) from a site in Uttarakhand state to create an escape tunnel for the workers, all of whom are currently alive. Officials have "contacted the Thai company which rescued the children trapped in the cave", Uttarakhand's department of public relations said in an official statement while referring to a rescue operation to rescue 12 boys from a junior football team and their coach who were trapped for more than two weeks in the Tham Luang cave complex in 2018. State govt reaches out to experts from Norway The Uttarakhand state authorities have also asked for help from the engineering experts in soil and rock mechanics at the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute as efforts to free the men continued into a fourth day. Also read | Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: How will a 3-ft pipe rescue trapped labourers? On Wednesday, medicine was sent to the 40 men trapped in the road tunnel they were building. "After consultation with doctors, medicine has been sent to the workers through pipes," police officer Prashant Kumar was quoted as saying by the AFP from the site. "Contact is being maintained with the workers." Rescue ops continue on 'war footing' Food and oxygen had also been sent to the trapped workers, he said. The pace of drilling was "slow because of natural causes", but efforts were being made on a "war footing", Uttarakhand state police chief Ashok Kumar said in a statement on Wednesday. The air force on Wednesday flew in a second drilling machine on a C-130 Hercules military plane on Wednesday to "speed up rescue work" after the first one broke down, he said. Also watch | Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: Rescue mission enters day 4 × Engineers are using heavy machinery to drive a steel pipe about 90 centimetres (nearly three feet) wide through the debris, wide enough for the trapped men to get out from. "We should keep our patience and trust," Ashok Kumar was quoted as saying by the AFP. "I am sure that we will rescue all the labourers." The 4.5-kilometre (2.7-mile) tunnel was being constructed between the towns of Silkyara and Dandalgaon to connect Uttarkashi and Yamunotri, two of the holiest Hindu shrines. The tunnel is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's road project aimed at improving travel conditions between some of the most popular Hindu shrines in the country as well as areas along the Line of Actual Control with China. (With inputs from agencies)

India contacts Thai cave rescue experts while racing against time to save Uttarakhand tunnel workers

Several people are feared to be trapped after a tunnel collapsed in India's Uttarakhand. Part of the tunnel under construction from the Silkyara to Dandalgaon collapsed in Uttarkashi.

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: Indian workers send medicines for the trapped workers | WION

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: 40 workers trapped for four days in road tunnel collapse in India

<p>After an exhaustive 70-hour rescue mission in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, officials expressed optimism that all 40 trapped labourers under a collapsed tunnel will be evacuated by Wednesday (Nov 15). The operation, however, faced setbacks on Tuesday (Nov 14)&nbsp;due to a fresh landslide, triggering a stampede-like situation and injuring two workers.</p>

<p>Over 160 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) were mobilised urgently to reach the stranded workers.</p>

<h2><strong>What's the plan?</strong></h2>

<p>To facilitate the evacuation, eight pipes of 900-millimetre diameter and five pipes of 800-millimetre&nbsp;diameter, each six metres long and made of mild steel, have been deployed.</p>

<p>The strategy involves sequentially pushing these pipes through the rubble using drilling equipment, creating a pathway for the trapped workers.</p>

<p>The insertion process, termed shotcreting, involves spraying concrete on the debris to stabilise loose material.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-are-safe-communication-established-with-around-40-workers-trapped-after-tunnel-collapse-in-uttarakhand-657952">Also read |&nbsp;‘All are safe’: Communication established with around 40 workers trapped in tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand</a></p>

<p>A hydraulic jack has been employed to forcefully drive the pipes through the rubble. The drilling, initiated on Tuesday with an auger machine, is accompanied by excavators clearing debris over the two-day operation.</p>

<p>A team of five engineers from the irrigation department is present on-site, ensuring the meticulous execution of the mild steel pipes' insertion through the rubble, as communicated by the State Emergency Operation Centre.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse: Urgent Rescue Mission for Trapped Workers in Himalayan State</strong></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-uttarakhand-tunnel-collapse-urgent-rescue-mission-for-trapped-workers-in-himalayan-state-658578/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Maintaining contact with the trapped labourers, rescue authorities convey the ongoing extensive efforts to boost morale.</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Nov 14), the labourers informed the Uttarakhand SDRF commandant that they were "doing well." A brief conversation between the son of a trapped worker and his father affirmed their safety, easing concerns.</p>

<p>While the majority of workers reported their well-being, one individual displayed nausea. Medical aid, in the form of supplied medicines, was promptly delivered to address the health concern.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After an exhaustive 70-hour rescue mission in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, officials expressed optimism that all 40 trapped labourers under a collapsed tunnel will be evacuated by Wednesday (Nov 15).

After an exhaustive 70-hour rescue mission in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, officials expressed optimism that all 40 trapped labourers under a collapsed tunnel will be evacuated by Wednesday (Nov 15). The operation, however, faced setbacks on Tuesday (Nov 14) due to a fresh landslide, triggering a stampede-like situation and injuring two workers. Over 160 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) were mobilised urgently to reach the stranded workers. What's the plan? To facilitate the evacuation, eight pipes of 900-millimetre diameter and five pipes of 800-millimetre diameter, each six metres long and made of mild steel, have been deployed. The strategy involves sequentially pushing these pipes through the rubble using drilling equipment, creating a pathway for the trapped workers. The insertion process, termed shotcreting, involves spraying concrete on the debris to stabilise loose material. Also read | ‘All are safe’: Communication established with around 40 workers trapped in tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand A hydraulic jack has been employed to forcefully drive the pipes through the rubble. The drilling, initiated on Tuesday with an auger machine, is accompanied by excavators clearing debris over the two-day operation. A team of five engineers from the irrigation department is present on-site, ensuring the meticulous execution of the mild steel pipes' insertion through the rubble, as communicated by the State Emergency Operation Centre. Also watch | Gravitas: Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse: Urgent Rescue Mission for Trapped Workers in Himalayan State Maintaining contact with the trapped labourers, rescue authorities convey the ongoing extensive efforts to boost morale. On Tuesday (Nov 14), the labourers informed the Uttarakhand SDRF commandant that they were "doing well." A brief conversation between the son of a trapped worker and his father affirmed their safety, easing concerns. While the majority of workers reported their well-being, one individual displayed nausea. Medical aid, in the form of supplied medicines, was promptly delivered to address the health concern. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: How will a 3-ft pipe rescue trapped labourers?

<p>In Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, approximately 40 workers have been trapped for over 24 hours inside an under-construction tunnel. Ranjit Kumar Sinha, the Secretary of Disaster Management, estimated that it might take an additional two days to rescue them. Here are key points in this developing story.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rescue efforts and challenges</strong></h2>

<p>An escape passage, spanning about 60 meters, has been established to reach the trapped workers.</p>

<p>Officials have removed around 20 metres of the slab blocking the tunnel, and a 35-metre passage is yet to be cleared.</p>

<p>The workers were engaged in reprofiling, altering the structure's shape, nearly 265 metres inside the tunnel when a collapse occurred, trapping them.</p>

<p>Rescue operations commenced promptly, focusing on ensuring a continuous supply of food and oxygen to the trapped workers.</p>

<p>Essential provisions, including medicines, food, water, electricity, and oxygen, were delivered through pipes.</p>

<p>Walkie-talkies were employed for effective communication between the rescue teams and the trapped workers.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pollution-after-diwali-higher-in-9-out-of-11-cities-than-a-year-ago-658230">Also read |&nbsp;India: Pollution after Diwali higher in 9 out of 11 cities than a year ago, says report</a></p>

<h2><strong>Cause&nbsp;of the incident</strong></h2>

<p>Preliminary reports attribute the collapse to a landslide in the region.</p>

<p>Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami mentioned loose soil as a factor causing debris to fall, resulting in delays in rescue operations.</p>

<p>Efforts to stabilise loose debris hindering rescue operations are underway.</p>

<p>Excavation with shotcreting, a method involving spraying concrete at high velocity over a structure, has commenced for the collapsed tunnel's initial 40 metres.</p>

<p>Teams are planning to use a hydraulic jack to push a 900 mm diameter pipe through the debris, creating a passageway for the trapped workers.</p>

<p>All necessary materials and machinery for this operation are being mobilised, with experts from the irrigation department joining the efforts.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Delhi: Toxic haze engulfs India’s national capital</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-delhi-toxic-haze-engulfs-indias-national-capital-658186/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Tunnel details</strong></h2>

<p>The 4.5 km-long tunnel connects Silkyara to the Gangotri-Yamnotri axis and is part of the Chardham Mahamarg Pariyojana initiated by the central government.</p>

<p>The trapped workers are reportedly in a 400-metre&nbsp;buffer zone within the tunnel, and their safety is being closely monitored.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, approximately 40 workers have been trapped for over 24 hours inside an under-construction tunnel. Ranjit Kumar Sinha, the Secretary of Disaster Management, estimated that it might take an additional two days to rescue them.

In Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, approximately 40 workers have been trapped for over 24 hours inside an under-construction tunnel. Ranjit Kumar Sinha, the Secretary of Disaster Management, estimated that it might take an additional two days to rescue them. Here are key points in this developing story. Rescue efforts and challenges An escape passage, spanning about 60 meters, has been established to reach the trapped workers. Officials have removed around 20 metres of the slab blocking the tunnel, and a 35-metre passage is yet to be cleared. The workers were engaged in reprofiling, altering the structure's shape, nearly 265 metres inside the tunnel when a collapse occurred, trapping them. Rescue operations commenced promptly, focusing on ensuring a continuous supply of food and oxygen to the trapped workers. Essential provisions, including medicines, food, water, electricity, and oxygen, were delivered through pipes. Walkie-talkies were employed for effective communication between the rescue teams and the trapped workers. Also read | India: Pollution after Diwali higher in 9 out of 11 cities than a year ago, says report Cause of the incident Preliminary reports attribute the collapse to a landslide in the region. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami mentioned loose soil as a factor causing debris to fall, resulting in delays in rescue operations. Efforts to stabilise loose debris hindering rescue operations are underway. Excavation with shotcreting, a method involving spraying concrete at high velocity over a structure, has commenced for the collapsed tunnel's initial 40 metres. Teams are planning to use a hydraulic jack to push a 900 mm diameter pipe through the debris, creating a passageway for the trapped workers. All necessary materials and machinery for this operation are being mobilised, with experts from the irrigation department joining the efforts. Also watch | Gravitas | Delhi: Toxic haze engulfs India’s national capital Tunnel details The 4.5 km-long tunnel connects Silkyara to the Gangotri-Yamnotri axis and is part of the Chardham Mahamarg Pariyojana initiated by the central government. The trapped workers are reportedly in a 400-metre buffer zone within the tunnel, and their safety is being closely monitored. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: May take 2 more days to rescue 40 trapped labourers, authorities say

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: 40 labourers still trapped in as under-construction tunnel collapses

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse | At least 40 people trapped in Uttarkashi tunnel collapse

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse | CM Dhami: Pray to God for the safe return of everybody

Uttarakhand tunnel collapse: Under construction tunnel in Uttarkashi collapses

Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reacts to incident

<p>A tunnel collapsed in the Uttarkashi district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Saturday (Nov 11) night leaving at least 36&nbsp;people trapped. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the dozens of workers who are believed to be inside the under-construction structure.</p>

<p>However, no casualties have been reported as of now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At approximately 4 am, the 150-metre portion of the four-and-a-half-kilometre tunnel collapsed.&nbsp;The tunnel links Silkyara to Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri National Highway.&nbsp;Emergency response teams from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) have been swiftly deployed to the site upon the direction of SDRF Commander Manikant Mishra&nbsp;under the leadership of Inspector Jagdamba Vijalwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-celebrates-another-diwali-with-men-in-uniform-this-time-on-chinese-border-657716">Indian PM Modi celebrates another Diwali with men in uniform, this time near Chinese border</a></p>

<p>The teams arrived at the incident site with the necessary rescue equipment.&nbsp;The rescue efforts are currently in progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rescue work is undergoing in coordination with other rescue units. DM and SP of Uttarkashi district also reached the spot along with police, revenue teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports citing authorities indicated there is a necessity to clear about 200 metres of the slab for the tunnel's reopening and rescue of the trapped workers inside it.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-girl-climbs-light-tower-to-speak-with-pm-modi-during-election-rally-657661">Girl climbs light tower to speak with PM Modi during election rally</a></p>

<p>To assist the trapped labourers who are stuck, one oxygen pipe has also reportedly been inserted through a narrow opening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tunnel intended to link Silkyara to Dandalgaon in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. It is part of the Char Dham Road Project, the foundation stone of which was laid by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016. The project was initially slated for completion by March 2020, but the deadline has been extended to December 2024.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbai-23-more-minor-girls-than-boys-died-by-suicide-in-4-years-657629">Mumbai: 23% more minor girls than boys died by suicide in 4 years</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbai-23-more-minor-girls-than-boys-died-by-suicide-in-4-years-657629/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The collapsed tunnel was expected to shorten the journey from Uttarkashi to Yamunotri Dham by 26 kilometres.</p>

<p><em>(Developing story. Follow for more.)</em></p>


A tunnel collapsed in the Uttarkashi district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Saturday (Nov 11) night leaving at least 36 people trapped. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the dozens of workers who are believed to be inside the under-construction structure.

A tunnel collapsed in the Uttarkashi district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Saturday (Nov 11) night leaving at least 36 people trapped. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the dozens of workers who are believed to be inside the under-construction structure. However, no casualties have been reported as of now. At approximately 4 am, the 150-metre portion of the four-and-a-half-kilometre tunnel collapsed. The tunnel links Silkyara to Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri National Highway. Emergency response teams from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) have been swiftly deployed to the site upon the direction of SDRF Commander Manikant Mishra under the leadership of Inspector Jagdamba Vijalwan. Also Read | Indian PM Modi celebrates another Diwali with men in uniform, this time near Chinese border The teams arrived at the incident site with the necessary rescue equipment. The rescue efforts are currently in progress. The rescue work is undergoing in coordination with other rescue units. DM and SP of Uttarkashi district also reached the spot along with police, revenue teams. Reports citing authorities indicated there is a necessity to clear about 200 metres of the slab for the tunnel's reopening and rescue of the trapped workers inside it. Also Read | Girl climbs light tower to speak with PM Modi during election rally To assist the trapped labourers who are stuck, one oxygen pipe has also reportedly been inserted through a narrow opening. The tunnel intended to link Silkyara to Dandalgaon in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. It is part of the Char Dham Road Project, the foundation stone of which was laid by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016. The project was initially slated for completion by March 2020, but the deadline has been extended to December 2024. Watch | Mumbai: 23% more minor girls than boys died by suicide in 4 years × The collapsed tunnel was expected to shorten the journey from Uttarkashi to Yamunotri Dham by 26 kilometres. (Developing story. Follow for more.)

India: Under-construction tunnel collapses in Uttarakhand, 36 feared trapped; rescue efforts in progress

A man fell into a river while trying to take a selfie in the northern state of Uttarakhand. This is only one of the multiple instances India has witnessed. Are 'Killfies' becoming an epidemic? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Man falls into river trying to take a selfie

<p>At least seven people were killed while 27 were left injured after a tourist bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand on Sunday (August 20).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bus carrying the pilgrims had set off from the western state of Gujarat and plunged into the gorge from the&nbsp;Gangotri national highway in the Uttarkashi district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State&nbsp;Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who was in the capital city of Delhi at the time of the accident, spoke to the officials and directed them to carry out relief and rescue operations at a fast pace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Consequently, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response&nbsp;Force (SDRF) teams were pressed into action for rescue operations. The local villagers who arrived on the scene first also helped the authorities with the evacuation.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AccidentRescue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AccidentRescue</a><br />
<br />
🔶Passenger bus falls into gorge<br />
🔶at Gangnani, Uttarkashi (UK)<br />
🔶<a href="https://twitter.com/15bnNdrf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@15bnNdrf</a> joined rescue ops with SDRF, Civil Adm &amp; locals<br />
🔶28 person rescued safely<br />
🔶 retrieved 7 dead victims<a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/BhallaAjay26?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhallaAjay26</a><a href="https://twitter.com/AtulKarwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AtulKarwal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBHomeAffairs</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PIBDehradun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBDehradun</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> <a href="https://t.co/3v3n2HyrZq">pic.twitter.com/3v3n2HyrZq</a></p>
— NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ/status/1693293520516522468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heavy-rains-wreak-havoc-in-uttarakhand-himachal-pradesh-626006"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Heavy rains wreak havoc in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heavy-rains-wreak-havoc-in-uttarakhand-himachal-pradesh-626006/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Notably,&nbsp;all the pilgrims were originally from Bhavnagar district in Gujarat, while the driver and conductor were from Dehradun, according to Devendra Patwal, the district disaster management officer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Five individuals with serious injuries have been transferred to a higher medical facility in Dehradun," said Patwal.</p>

<p>The remains of the seven pilgrims were retrieved by the rescue teams and have been sent for postmortem examination. Meanwhile, the cause of the accident is currently being probed after authorities ordered an inquiry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rain-updates-imd-predicts-heavy-rainfall-in-uttarakhand-and-other-indian-states-626308"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Rain updates: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand and other Indian states</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Heavy rainfall in northern states&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the northern states of India have been hit by heavy monsoon rains, leading to treacherous conditions. Earlier on Sunday, the weather office had issued an orange alert for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, warning of "extremely bad" weather with the potential of disruption on commute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Uttarakhand is set to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall over the coming days with estimates ranging from 115.6 to 204.4 mm.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


At least seven people were killed while 27 were left injured after a tourist bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand on Sunday (August 20).

At least seven people were killed while 27 were left injured after a tourist bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand on Sunday (August 20). The bus carrying the pilgrims had set off from the western state of Gujarat and plunged into the gorge from the Gangotri national highway in the Uttarkashi district. State Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who was in the capital city of Delhi at the time of the accident, spoke to the officials and directed them to carry out relief and rescue operations at a fast pace. Consequently, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams were pressed into action for rescue operations. The local villagers who arrived on the scene first also helped the authorities with the evacuation. #AccidentRescue 🔶Passenger bus falls into gorge 🔶at Gangnani, Uttarkashi (UK) 🔶@15bnNdrf joined rescue ops with SDRF, Civil Adm & locals 🔶28 person rescued safely 🔶 retrieved 7 dead victims@HMOIndia@BhallaAjay26@AtulKarwal @PIBHomeAffairs@PIBDehradun @ANI pic.twitter.com/3v3n2HyrZq — NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) August 20, 2023 × Watch | Heavy rains wreak havoc in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh × Notably, all the pilgrims were originally from Bhavnagar district in Gujarat, while the driver and conductor were from Dehradun, according to Devendra Patwal, the district disaster management officer. "Five individuals with serious injuries have been transferred to a higher medical facility in Dehradun," said Patwal. The remains of the seven pilgrims were retrieved by the rescue teams and have been sent for postmortem examination. Meanwhile, the cause of the accident is currently being probed after authorities ordered an inquiry. Also read | Rain updates: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand and other Indian states Heavy rainfall in northern states Notably, the northern states of India have been hit by heavy monsoon rains, leading to treacherous conditions. Earlier on Sunday, the weather office had issued an orange alert for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, warning of "extremely bad" weather with the potential of disruption on commute. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Uttarakhand is set to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall over the coming days with estimates ranging from 115.6 to 204.4 mm. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: At least 7 dead, 27 injured after bus carrying pilgrims falls into gorge in Uttarakhand

Heavy rains trigger landslides in Northern Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, schools to remain shut. The death toll continues to rise, the state officials have confirmed that over 65 people have been killed and dozens are still missing.

India | Heavy rains in Himachal, Uttarakhand: IMD says, 'No respite for states until August 18'

No respite for the northern Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand as heavy rains continue, the death toll in the two states climbs to 78.

Heavy rains wreak havoc in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh

Heavy rains trigger landslides in Northern Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, schools to remain shut.

India: Heavy rains batter Himachal Pradesh, CM Sukhu visits disaster-hit Solan's Jadon | WION

<p>The death toll due to massive landslide in India's Himalayan state of Uttarakhand has reached three as rescue work goes on, said officials. The information from the Rudraprayag District administration, as quoted in media reports says, "Three people have been killed and 20 people are missing in the landslide that occurred 16 km before Kedarnath in Rudraprayag's Gaurikund."</p>

<p>Officials reportedly added that two roadside shops and dhabas (rural eateries) were hit by the debris that came washing down from mountains.</p>

<p>Four local people and 16 of Nepali origin were present in these shops and dhabas when the landslide occurred, added officials.</p>

<p>The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) is conducting a search operation at the spot.</p>

<p>On Saturday (August 5), a portion of the Gangotri National Highway caved in due to a landslide near the Forest Department office at Lisa Depot in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi, disrupting vehicular movement.</p>

<p>Officials have said that a stretch of around 60 metres has caved in. The affected area is close to an airstrip and is said to be strategically important.</p>

<p>Officials have said that the nearby Tehri Dam is the reason for the landslide.</p>

<p>On Friday, as far as 500 metres ahead of Bhatwadi, the highway was closed to traffic since morning due to falling debris.</p>

<p>Uttarkashi District Administration has said that this had caused a disruption for the devotees who were on a pilgrimage to Gangotri Dham.</p>

<p>In this monsoon season, 31 people have died so far, 31 have been injured and 1176 houses have been damaged in the state of Uttarakhand, according to officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the information received from the State Disaster Management Department, the maximum loss of life and damage to houses has been due to cloudbursts and landslides.</p>

<p>Officials stated, "Since June 15 this year, 10 deaths and 5 injuries have been reported in the state due to landslides, 19 deaths and 21 injuries due to cloudbursts or heavy rains, 2 deaths and 5 injuries due to lightning and 32 houses alone have been completely destroyed due to cloudburst."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

<p><strong><em>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</em></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The death toll due to massive landslide in India's Himalayan state of Uttarakhand has reached three as rescue work goes on, said officials. The information from the Rudraprayag District administration, as quoted in media reports says, "Three people have been killed and 20 people are missing in the landslide that occurred 16 km before Kedarnath in Rudraprayag's Gaurikund.

The death toll due to massive landslide in India's Himalayan state of Uttarakhand has reached three as rescue work goes on, said officials. The information from the Rudraprayag District administration, as quoted in media reports says, "Three people have been killed and 20 people are missing in the landslide that occurred 16 km before Kedarnath in Rudraprayag's Gaurikund." Officials reportedly added that two roadside shops and dhabas (rural eateries) were hit by the debris that came washing down from mountains. Four local people and 16 of Nepali origin were present in these shops and dhabas when the landslide occurred, added officials. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) is conducting a search operation at the spot. On Saturday (August 5), a portion of the Gangotri National Highway caved in due to a landslide near the Forest Department office at Lisa Depot in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi, disrupting vehicular movement. Officials have said that a stretch of around 60 metres has caved in. The affected area is close to an airstrip and is said to be strategically important. Officials have said that the nearby Tehri Dam is the reason for the landslide. On Friday, as far as 500 metres ahead of Bhatwadi, the highway was closed to traffic since morning due to falling debris. Uttarkashi District Administration has said that this had caused a disruption for the devotees who were on a pilgrimage to Gangotri Dham. In this monsoon season, 31 people have died so far, 31 have been injured and 1176 houses have been damaged in the state of Uttarakhand, according to officials. According to the information received from the State Disaster Management Department, the maximum loss of life and damage to houses has been due to cloudbursts and landslides. Officials stated, "Since June 15 this year, 10 deaths and 5 injuries have been reported in the state due to landslides, 19 deaths and 21 injuries due to cloudbursts or heavy rains, 2 deaths and 5 injuries due to lightning and 32 houses alone have been completely destroyed due to cloudburst." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Uttarakhand landslide: Three confirmed dead, 20 remain missing; rescue ops on

<p>At least 13 people are missing in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district - a route of Hindu religious pilgrimage Kedarnath yatra - due to a landslide on Thursday night (August 3). According to the news agency ANI, the landslide occurred after torrential rain near the Gaurikund post bridge in the north Indian state. Three shops have been damaged.</p>

<p>ANI reported that teams of the district administration, disaster management, police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were present on the spot.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Disaster Management Officer, Dalip Singh Rajwar says, "We got information that 3 shops were affected because of falling rocks and heavy rainfall...The search operation was started immediately. It was said that around 10-12 people were there but till now they have not been… <a href="https://t.co/QSUuPHDfcE">pic.twitter.com/QSUuPHDfcE</a></p>
— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1687301078646390784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"The operation is going on to find the missing people," SP Rudraprayag, Dr Visakha told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dalip Singh Rajwar, a disaster management official said, "We got information that 3 shops were affected because of falling rocks and heavy rainfall...The search operation was started immediately. It was said that around 10-12 people were there but till now they have not been located..."</p>

<h2><strong>CM Dhami takes stock of situation</strong></h2>

<p>Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami&nbsp;reached the State Disaster Operation Center located at the Secretariat to take stock of the situation in Gaurikund of Rudraprayag due to rains.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Dhami said, "Last night, we received the information that 13 people are missing so, we are conducting the search operations and providing necessary help. We are also trying to contact the relatives of those who are missing."</p>

<p>"We are doing rescue operations with the help of teams and NDRF and SDRF are also deployed there. We are also trying to relocate people who are residing in the low-lying areas," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


At least 13 people are missing in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district - a route of Hindu religious pilgrimage Kedarnath yatra - due to a landslide on Thursday night (August 3).

At least 13 people are missing in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district - a route of Hindu religious pilgrimage Kedarnath yatra - due to a landslide on Thursday night (August 3). According to the news agency ANI, the landslide occurred after torrential rain near the Gaurikund post bridge in the north Indian state. Three shops have been damaged. ANI reported that teams of the district administration, disaster management, police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were present on the spot. Disaster Management Officer, Dalip Singh Rajwar says, "We got information that 3 shops were affected because of falling rocks and heavy rainfall...The search operation was started immediately. It was said that around 10-12 people were there but till now they have not been… pic.twitter.com/QSUuPHDfcE — ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) August 4, 2023 × "The operation is going on to find the missing people," SP Rudraprayag, Dr Visakha told ANI. Dalip Singh Rajwar, a disaster management official said, "We got information that 3 shops were affected because of falling rocks and heavy rainfall...The search operation was started immediately. It was said that around 10-12 people were there but till now they have not been located..." CM Dhami takes stock of situation Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached the State Disaster Operation Center located at the Secretariat to take stock of the situation in Gaurikund of Rudraprayag due to rains. Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Dhami said, "Last night, we received the information that 13 people are missing so, we are conducting the search operations and providing necessary help. We are also trying to contact the relatives of those who are missing." "We are doing rescue operations with the help of teams and NDRF and SDRF are also deployed there. We are also trying to relocate people who are residing in the low-lying areas," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Landslide hits Kedarnath route in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag, 13 people missing

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid3xUg7B1ZW2JA" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Torrential rains in north Indian state of Uttarakhand caused landslides and roadblocks on Sunday. Ganga River also crossed the danger mark in Devprayag and reached the warning level in Haridwar. Heavy rains also led to the release of water from the Alaknanda River dam. According to the Uttarakhand state officials, the water level of the Ganga rose to 463.20 metres, inundating the Sangam Ghat, Ramkund, Dhaneshwar Ghat, and Fuladi Ghat.</p>

<p>Uttarakhand's situation has worsened due to the continuous heavy showers in the last few days. There is a flood-like situation in 71 areas, including Laksar, Khanpur, Roorkee, Bhagwanpur and Haridwar tehsil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State Disaster Operation Centres has ordered Haridwar District Magistrate Dheeraj Singh to fix gate number 10 of the Bhimgoda barrage at the latest to prevent grave losses due to the high-speed water flowing through the breached gate. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Indian Army and Uttarakhand Police are carrying out rescue operations throughout the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pubgoers-get-trapped-inside-elevator-for-10-hours-rescuers-break-windows-to-evacuate-them-616265">Delhi: Pubgoers get trapped inside elevator for 10 hours, rescuers break windows to evacuate them</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Ganga water level crosses danger mark in Uttarakhand&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The water level of the Ganga saw a further rise after officials released 2,000-3,000 cusecs of water from the dam of the GVK hydroelectric project built on the Alaknanda River.</p>

<p>Tehri disaster management officer Brijesh Bhatt told PTI, "The district administration is making frequent calls to warn people to stay away from the banks of the river. The water level of the Ganga in the Muni ki Reti area of Tehri near Rishikesh also increased to 338.60 metres, 0.10 metres above the warning level."</p>

<p>Ganga crossed a warning level of 293 metres in Haridwar on Sunday evening. Officicials have issued an alert in the low-lying areas.</p>

<p>The excessive water flow from the Girthi Ganga River at Niti Ghati caused damage to the bridge on the Joshimath-Malari road in the Chamoli district. The disaster management department said only the Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police used the bridge. Meanwhile, the Kali River in Pithoragarh's Dharchula area has crossed the warning mark.</p>

<h2><strong>Dehradun Meteorological Centre issues 'orange' alert</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, the Dehradun Meteorological Centre issued an orange alert due to heavy rains in 13 districts of Uttarakhand. The State Emergency Operation Centre has also directed the district magistrates of Tehri, Pauri, Dehradun and Haridwar to take necessary precautions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, the heavy rains in Uttarakhand have killed five people and damaged several houses. In Haridwar, 17 roads and nine bridges have faced damage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Torrential rains in north Indian state of Uttarakhand caused landslides and roadblocks on Sunday. Ganga River also crossed the danger mark in Devprayag and reached the warning level in Haridwar.

Torrential rains in north Indian state of Uttarakhand caused landslides and roadblocks on Sunday. Ganga River also crossed the danger mark in Devprayag and reached the warning level in Haridwar. Heavy rains also led to the release of water from the Alaknanda River dam. According to the Uttarakhand state officials, the water level of the Ganga rose to 463.20 metres, inundating the Sangam Ghat, Ramkund, Dhaneshwar Ghat, and Fuladi Ghat. Uttarakhand's situation has worsened due to the continuous heavy showers in the last few days. There is a flood-like situation in 71 areas, including Laksar, Khanpur, Roorkee, Bhagwanpur and Haridwar tehsil. State Disaster Operation Centres has ordered Haridwar District Magistrate Dheeraj Singh to fix gate number 10 of the Bhimgoda barrage at the latest to prevent grave losses due to the high-speed water flowing through the breached gate. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Indian Army and Uttarakhand Police are carrying out rescue operations throughout the state. ALSO READ | Delhi: Pubgoers get trapped inside elevator for 10 hours, rescuers break windows to evacuate them Ganga water level crosses danger mark in Uttarakhand The water level of the Ganga saw a further rise after officials released 2,000-3,000 cusecs of water from the dam of the GVK hydroelectric project built on the Alaknanda River. Tehri disaster management officer Brijesh Bhatt told PTI, "The district administration is making frequent calls to warn people to stay away from the banks of the river. The water level of the Ganga in the Muni ki Reti area of Tehri near Rishikesh also increased to 338.60 metres, 0.10 metres above the warning level." Ganga crossed a warning level of 293 metres in Haridwar on Sunday evening. Officicials have issued an alert in the low-lying areas. The excessive water flow from the Girthi Ganga River at Niti Ghati caused damage to the bridge on the Joshimath-Malari road in the Chamoli district. The disaster management department said only the Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police used the bridge. Meanwhile, the Kali River in Pithoragarh's Dharchula area has crossed the warning mark. Dehradun Meteorological Centre issues 'orange' alert On Monday, the Dehradun Meteorological Centre issued an orange alert due to heavy rains in 13 districts of Uttarakhand. The State Emergency Operation Centre has also directed the district magistrates of Tehri, Pauri, Dehradun and Haridwar to take necessary precautions. So far, the heavy rains in Uttarakhand have killed five people and damaged several houses. In Haridwar, 17 roads and nine bridges have faced damage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Uttarakhand rains: Ganga crosses danger mark at several places; orange alert issued in 13 districts

<p>A violent scuffle broke out among tourists during rafting in the Ganga&nbsp;river in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, the video of which is going viral on social media platforms.</p>

<p>As per news agency ANI, the incident took place on Saturday (20 May).</p>

<p>The video clip shared by ANI shows groups of people thrashing each other violently with rafting paddles in the middle of the Ganga River.</p>

<p>In the video, three tourists can be seen jumping into the river in a bid to escape the attack.</p>

<p>A man can be heard asking someone in the combatant raft, "Park the boat to the side...You will sink us!" Whereas, the rafting guides can be heard asking the tourists to sit down.</p>

<p>"A violent scuffle broke out among rafters during river rafting in Rishikesh, yesterday," wrote news agency ANI while sharing the video on its official Twitter handle.</p>

<p>As per ANI, SP Tehri Garhwal Navneet Bhullar said that the police are investigating the incident that took place in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. He further added that a case will also be registered in this matter.</p>

<p>The exact reason behind the assault is not yet known.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Uttarakhand | A violent scuffle broke out among rafters during river rafting in Rishikesh, yesterday. On the incident, SP Tehri Garhwal, Navneet Bhullar said that the police are investigating the incident after which a case will also be registered in this matter. <a href="https://t.co/dRAs4MiUB9">pic.twitter.com/dRAs4MiUB9</a></p>
— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1660228196049248256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens react</strong></h2>

<p>The video has garnered over 8,500 views till now and various users have reacted to it out of which some have condemned the tourists for creating an upheaval.</p>

<p>"This is the reality of tourists in every state they bring their filth into every tourist place," wrote one user.</p>

<p>"Looks like they are gangsters got violent due to their rivalry," wrote another.</p>

<p>"It's a very shameful incident and must be enquired into properly and stern action be taken against the erring person, to ensure non-repetition of such incidents. Uttarakhand is - Simply Heaven. There should not be any place for the violence, in the state," commented another user.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am so grateful that I was born in such a country of idiots and I am amongst them," a user jokingly remarked.</p>

<h2><strong>Police initiate investigation</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Indian Express, Muni Ki Reti SHO Ritesh Shah said that some people claimed that the incident occurred three days ago, while others asserted that the video was much older.</p>

<p>“We also do not know the exact location of this violent scuffle as there is not much in the video. There are two different police station jurisdictions in the Rishikesh rafting path. We are trying to confirm the rafting company based on the logo on the rafts… We will also write a letter to the tourism officer and request him to cancel the licence of the company and the rafting guide,” Indian Express quoted Shah as saying.</p>

<p>“The video came to our knowledge on Saturday, but we have not received any complaint. We are trying to confirm the rafting company by closely inspecting the video. We will call them and confirm when the incident took place,” said Tehri Garhwal SSP Navneet Singh.</p>

<p><em>&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A violent scuffle broke out among tourists during rafting in the Ganga river in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, the video of which is going viral on social media platforms.

A violent scuffle broke out among tourists during rafting in the Ganga river in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, the video of which is going viral on social media platforms. As per news agency ANI, the incident took place on Saturday (20 May). The video clip shared by ANI shows groups of people thrashing each other violently with rafting paddles in the middle of the Ganga River. In the video, three tourists can be seen jumping into the river in a bid to escape the attack. A man can be heard asking someone in the combatant raft, "Park the boat to the side...You will sink us!" Whereas, the rafting guides can be heard asking the tourists to sit down. "A violent scuffle broke out among rafters during river rafting in Rishikesh, yesterday," wrote news agency ANI while sharing the video on its official Twitter handle. As per ANI, SP Tehri Garhwal Navneet Bhullar said that the police are investigating the incident that took place in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. He further added that a case will also be registered in this matter. The exact reason behind the assault is not yet known. Uttarakhand | A violent scuffle broke out among rafters during river rafting in Rishikesh, yesterday. On the incident, SP Tehri Garhwal, Navneet Bhullar said that the police are investigating the incident after which a case will also be registered in this matter. pic.twitter.com/dRAs4MiUB9 — ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) May 21, 2023 × Netizens react The video has garnered over 8,500 views till now and various users have reacted to it out of which some have condemned the tourists for creating an upheaval. "This is the reality of tourists in every state they bring their filth into every tourist place," wrote one user. "Looks like they are gangsters got violent due to their rivalry," wrote another. "It's a very shameful incident and must be enquired into properly and stern action be taken against the erring person, to ensure non-repetition of such incidents. Uttarakhand is - Simply Heaven. There should not be any place for the violence, in the state," commented another user. "I am so grateful that I was born in such a country of idiots and I am amongst them," a user jokingly remarked. Police initiate investigation As per the Indian Express, Muni Ki Reti SHO Ritesh Shah said that some people claimed that the incident occurred three days ago, while others asserted that the video was much older. “We also do not know the exact location of this violent scuffle as there is not much in the video. There are two different police station jurisdictions in the Rishikesh rafting path. We are trying to confirm the rafting company based on the logo on the rafts… We will also write a letter to the tourism officer and request him to cancel the licence of the company and the rafting guide,” Indian Express quoted Shah as saying. “The video came to our knowledge on Saturday, but we have not received any complaint. We are trying to confirm the rafting company by closely inspecting the video. We will call them and confirm when the incident took place,” said Tehri Garhwal SSP Navneet Singh. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Violent scuffle breaks out among tourists during river-rafting in Rishikesh

<p>A member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from the northern Uttarakhand state was forced to call off his daughter’s wedding to a Muslim man after local right-wing groups objected to it.</p>

<p>The wedding was scheduled to take place on May 28. The invitation card instantly became viral, drawing the attention of local right-wing groups.</p>

<p>On Friday, the group belonging to Hindutva outfits – Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bhairav Sena, and Bajrang Dal—launched a protest by burning the effigy of the BJP leader Yashpal Benam at Jhanda Chawk in Pauri district.</p>

<p>"We strongly oppose such a marriage," the working president of district VHP Dipak Gaud had said, according to PTI news agency.</p>

<p>According to reports, the bride and groom met during their engineering course at a college in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh state. And as the time went by, they fell for each other.</p>

<p>Benam, who is Pauri’s municipal chairman and a former MLA, said that he thought of getting his daughter married to a Muslim man for her happiness, but had to postpone because of immense backlash from Hindutva outfits.</p>

<p>“Now, I have to listen to the voice of the public as well," Benam said.</p>

<h2><strong>'No one had problems earlier'</strong></h2>

<p>He said that the inter-religious alliance was fixed two to three months ago, and no one had any objections at that time. But the growing backlash from the Hindutva outfits kept putting pressure on him, forcing him to postpone the wedding.</p>

<p>He said that it was difficult to go ahead with the plan because “an environment was created” as such that made his daughter’s wedding unfavourable.</p>

<p>The BJP member further said that he did not want the wedding to be held under police protection, and thanked the groom’s family for “understanding the situation”. He also thanked the police and district administration “for keeping an eye on the matter”.</p>

<p>Benam was earlier with the Congress but left the party a decade ago. He won as an independent from the Pauri Assembly constituency in 2007.</p>

<p>He had invited political leaders from both the BJP and the Congress to the wedding.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from the northern Uttarakhand state was forced to call off his daughter’s wedding to a Muslim man after local right-wing groups objected to it.

A member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from the northern Uttarakhand state was forced to call off his daughter’s wedding to a Muslim man after local right-wing groups objected to it. The wedding was scheduled to take place on May 28. The invitation card instantly became viral, drawing the attention of local right-wing groups. On Friday, the group belonging to Hindutva outfits – Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bhairav Sena, and Bajrang Dal—launched a protest by burning the effigy of the BJP leader Yashpal Benam at Jhanda Chawk in Pauri district. "We strongly oppose such a marriage," the working president of district VHP Dipak Gaud had said, according to PTI news agency. According to reports, the bride and groom met during their engineering course at a college in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh state. And as the time went by, they fell for each other. Benam, who is Pauri’s municipal chairman and a former MLA, said that he thought of getting his daughter married to a Muslim man for her happiness, but had to postpone because of immense backlash from Hindutva outfits. “Now, I have to listen to the voice of the public as well," Benam said. 'No one had problems earlier' He said that the inter-religious alliance was fixed two to three months ago, and no one had any objections at that time. But the growing backlash from the Hindutva outfits kept putting pressure on him, forcing him to postpone the wedding. He said that it was difficult to go ahead with the plan because “an environment was created” as such that made his daughter’s wedding unfavourable. The BJP member further said that he did not want the wedding to be held under police protection, and thanked the groom’s family for “understanding the situation”. He also thanked the police and district administration “for keeping an eye on the matter”. Benam was earlier with the Congress but left the party a decade ago. He won as an independent from the Pauri Assembly constituency in 2007. He had invited political leaders from both the BJP and the Congress to the wedding. (With inputs from agencies)

India: BJP leader calls off daughter’s wedding to Muslim man after backlash from right-wing outfits

After a Twitter video of the wildcat growling at the tourist vehicle went viral, a gypsy driver in Uttarakhand was detained for provoking a tiger in the Jim Corbett National Park.

Uttarakhand: Driver accused of provoking a tiger in Jim Corbett National Park | India

<p>Snowfall and rain in various parts of Uttarakhand on Friday intensified the cold, adding to the woes of people from land subsidence-hit Joshimath living in temporary relief camps.&nbsp;Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a meeting with senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and Secretary Disaster Management Ranjit Kumar Sinha and asked them to ensure that enough heaters and bonfire material are supplied to the temporary relief centres in Joshimath.</p>

<p>Apart from Joshimath, located at a height of around 6,000 feet, many famous locations in the higher altitudes of Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts, including Badrinath, skiing destination Auli, Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib, Nanda Devi National Park and the Valley of Flowers also witnessed snowfall, officials said.</p>

<p>Of the 47 villages in the Chamoli district affected by snowfall, 19 are in the Ghat sub-division, 13 in Joshimath, eight in Gairsain and seven in the Chamoli sub-division, the District Disaster Management office said.</p>

<p>Dehradun also woke up to an early morning drizzle while Mussoorie, a popular tourist spot, received the season's first snowfall. The plains in the state, including Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar districts, were enveloped in fog.</p>

<p>Snowfall in the high-altitude areas continues and overcast conditions prevail in most of the places in the plains, officials said.</p>

<p>Dismantling of unsafe hotels and houses in Joshimath has been temporarily halted due to bad weather, Chamoli District Magistrate Himanshu Khurana said.</p>

<p>According to officials, 849 houses in Joshimath have developed cracks following land subsidence and 258 families have been moved to temporary relief centres.</p>

<p>Gangotri, Yamunotri, Harshil, Mukhba, Dayara Bugyal, Chawrangikhal and Sankri in Uttarkashi district also received heavy snowfall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The snowfall has also blocked the roads to Gangotri and Yamunotri besides Dehradun-Suakholi and Uttarkashi-Lambgaon motor roads.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Snowfall and rain in various parts of Uttarakhand on Friday intensified the cold, adding to the woes of people from land subsidence-hit Joshimath living in temporary relief camps.

Snowfall and rain in various parts of Uttarakhand on Friday intensified the cold, adding to the woes of people from land subsidence-hit Joshimath living in temporary relief camps. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a meeting with senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and Secretary Disaster Management Ranjit Kumar Sinha and asked them to ensure that enough heaters and bonfire material are supplied to the temporary relief centres in Joshimath. Apart from Joshimath, located at a height of around 6,000 feet, many famous locations in the higher altitudes of Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts, including Badrinath, skiing destination Auli, Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib, Nanda Devi National Park and the Valley of Flowers also witnessed snowfall, officials said. Of the 47 villages in the Chamoli district affected by snowfall, 19 are in the Ghat sub-division, 13 in Joshimath, eight in Gairsain and seven in the Chamoli sub-division, the District Disaster Management office said. Dehradun also woke up to an early morning drizzle while Mussoorie, a popular tourist spot, received the season's first snowfall. The plains in the state, including Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar districts, were enveloped in fog. Snowfall in the high-altitude areas continues and overcast conditions prevail in most of the places in the plains, officials said. Dismantling of unsafe hotels and houses in Joshimath has been temporarily halted due to bad weather, Chamoli District Magistrate Himanshu Khurana said. According to officials, 849 houses in Joshimath have developed cracks following land subsidence and 258 families have been moved to temporary relief centres. Gangotri, Yamunotri, Harshil, Mukhba, Dayara Bugyal, Chawrangikhal and Sankri in Uttarkashi district also received heavy snowfall. The snowfall has also blocked the roads to Gangotri and Yamunotri besides Dehradun-Suakholi and Uttarkashi-Lambgaon motor roads. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Several places in Uttarakhand, including Joshimath, receive snowfall

The Supreme Court have agreed to hear on January 16 a plea seeking the court’s intervention to declare the crisis in Uttarakhand’s Joshimath as a national disaster.

WION Dispatch | Joshimath crisis: SC agrees to hear plea on January 16

Nearly 66 families have been forced to vacate their homes, the largest ropeway in Asia has been closed to tourists, two hotels have shut their doors for an indefinite period, and locals have taken to the streets.

WION Climate Tracker: Dozens of people evacuated from Joshimath after declared high-risk zone

<p>The Prime Minister’s Office held a high-level meeting with various government agencies and experts on Sunday to draft short, medium and long term plans to deal with the ground subsidence situation at northern Uttarakhand’s Joshimath hill town.</p>

<p>The land of the Joshimath has been sinking because of weak foundation and enhanced toe erosion, coupled with the incessant rainfall and floods in the recent past. It is estimated that human activity remains the biggest contributor.</p>

<p>During the meeting, the officials and experts were asked to assist the state government to tackle the crisis. Apart from that, the Secretary of Border Management and members of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have been told to visit the Himalayan state tomorrow and assess the situation further.</p>

<p>Experts from the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad, and the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun, have been asked by the state government to conduct a study of Joshimath area through satellite images and submit a detailed report with photographs.<br />
<br />
Various agencies of the Union government and experts are assisting the Uttarakhand government in preparing&nbsp;short, medium and long term plans.&nbsp;One team of NDRF and four teams of SDRF have already reached Joshimath.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Experts from National Disaster Management Authority, National Institute of Disaster Management, Geological Survey of India, IIT Roorkee, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, National Institute of Hydrology and Central Building Research Institute will also participate in the studies and deliberations&nbsp;and give their recommendations accordingly.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India: Over 600 houses in Joshimath have developed cracks, leaving people in agony</strong></h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-over-600-houses-in-joshimath-have-developed-cracks-leaving-people-in-agony-550367/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Garhwal Commissioner Sushil Kumar said that Joshimath has been declared a ‘landslide-subsidence zone’ and over 60 families have been evacuated to temporary relief centres while&nbsp;90 families are yet to be shifted to safety.<br />
<br />
Chamoli district magistrate Himanshu Khurana went on a door-to-door to survey for assessing the damage&nbsp;and appealed people living in houses that have developed cracks to move to relief centres. He urged&nbsp;people to move out of unsafe houses as arrangements for their stay have been made in hotels, homestays and other safe places.&nbsp;The state government will pay Rs 4,000 per month for up to six months to those who want to move to rented accommodations, he added.</p>

<p>The Geological Survey of India has been tasked with examining the suitability of Koti Farm, Herb Institute and the horticulture department's land in Joshimath and in Pipalkoti's Semaldala area for rehabilitation purposes.</p>

<p>The requests were made by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami after visiting the affected areas in Joshimath.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why Joshimath is important?</strong></h2>

<p>Joshimath is considered the gateway to famous pilgrimage sites like Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib and international skiing destination Auli.</p>

<h2><strong>Warnings ignored?</strong></h2>

<p>There is palpable anger among the people against the government, claiming that they have been apathetic to the warnings about the dangerous situation of buildings in the Himalayan town due to heavy construction activities going on around it.</p>

<h2><strong>High court’s help sought</strong></h2>

<p>A plea has been filed in the Delhi High Court asking the judiciary to direct the central government to constitute a committee headed by a retired judge to look into the issue of the sinking of Joshimath in Uttarakhand and rehabilitate the affected families.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/joshimath-landslide-uttarakhand-cm-chairs-high-level-meeting-official-says-no-subsidence-in-entire-area-550331">Joshimath landslide: Uttarakhand CM chairs high-level meeting; official says subsidence not in entire area</a></p>

<p>The plea, which has pointed out the woes of over 3000 people of Joshimath, states that cracks have developed in at least 570 houses due to continued land subsidence.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/joshimath-sinking-why-is-this-uttarakhand-town-falling-apart-550043">Joshimath sinking: Why is this town in India's Uttarakhand falling apart?</a></strong></p>

<p>After sinking of land, over 60 families are reported to have left the town while others are either risking their lives by staying there or searching for alternate accommodation in winter, it claimed.</p>

<h2><strong>Are other areas also at risk?</strong></h2>

<p>Experts believe that other tourist areas like Uttarkashi and Nainital are also at risk of land sinking, putting the lives of hundreds and thousands of people at risk.</p>

<p>Dr Bahadur Singh Kotlia, Professor of Geology at Kumaun University, told India Today that the main new reason behind the sudden sinking is because of the reactivation of the Main Central Thrust (MCT-2)— a geological fault where the Indian Plate has pushed under the Eurasian Plate along the Himalayas.</p>

<p>"This MCT-2 zone has reactivated, which is causing the sinking of ground in Joshimath and no geologist can predict when this reactivation will happen. We have been warning governments for two decades now, but it was all ignored till now. You cannot fight geology, you cannot fight and win with nature," says Dr Bahadur Singh Kotlia, Professor of Geology at Kumaun University.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE: </strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Prime Minister’s Office held a high-level meeting with various government agencies and experts on Sunday to draft short, medium and long term plans to deal with the ground subsidence situation at northern Uttarakhand’s Joshimath hill town.

The Prime Minister’s Office held a high-level meeting with various government agencies and experts on Sunday to draft short, medium and long term plans to deal with the ground subsidence situation at northern Uttarakhand’s Joshimath hill town. The land of the Joshimath has been sinking because of weak foundation and enhanced toe erosion, coupled with the incessant rainfall and floods in the recent past. It is estimated that human activity remains the biggest contributor. During the meeting, the officials and experts were asked to assist the state government to tackle the crisis. Apart from that, the Secretary of Border Management and members of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have been told to visit the Himalayan state tomorrow and assess the situation further. Experts from the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad, and the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun, have been asked by the state government to conduct a study of Joshimath area through satellite images and submit a detailed report with photographs. Various agencies of the Union government and experts are assisting the Uttarakhand government in preparing short, medium and long term plans. One team of NDRF and four teams of SDRF have already reached Joshimath. Experts from National Disaster Management Authority, National Institute of Disaster Management, Geological Survey of India, IIT Roorkee, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, National Institute of Hydrology and Central Building Research Institute will also participate in the studies and deliberations and give their recommendations accordingly. India: Over 600 houses in Joshimath have developed cracks, leaving people in agony Garhwal Commissioner Sushil Kumar said that Joshimath has been declared a ‘landslide-subsidence zone’ and over 60 families have been evacuated to temporary relief centres while 90 families are yet to be shifted to safety. Chamoli district magistrate Himanshu Khurana went on a door-to-door to survey for assessing the damage and appealed people living in houses that have developed cracks to move to relief centres. He urged people to move out of unsafe houses as arrangements for their stay have been made in hotels, homestays and other safe places. The state government will pay Rs 4,000 per month for up to six months to those who want to move to rented accommodations, he added. The Geological Survey of India has been tasked with examining the suitability of Koti Farm, Herb Institute and the horticulture department's land in Joshimath and in Pipalkoti's Semaldala area for rehabilitation purposes. The requests were made by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami after visiting the affected areas in Joshimath. Why Joshimath is important? Joshimath is considered the gateway to famous pilgrimage sites like Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib and international skiing destination Auli. Warnings ignored? There is palpable anger among the people against the government, claiming that they have been apathetic to the warnings about the dangerous situation of buildings in the Himalayan town due to heavy construction activities going on around it. High court’s help sought A plea has been filed in the Delhi High Court asking the judiciary to direct the central government to constitute a committee headed by a retired judge to look into the issue of the sinking of Joshimath in Uttarakhand and rehabilitate the affected families. Also read | Joshimath landslide: Uttarakhand CM chairs high-level meeting; official says subsidence not in entire area The plea, which has pointed out the woes of over 3000 people of Joshimath, states that cracks have developed in at least 570 houses due to continued land subsidence. ALSO READ | Joshimath sinking: Why is this town in India's Uttarakhand falling apart? After sinking of land, over 60 families are reported to have left the town while others are either risking their lives by staying there or searching for alternate accommodation in winter, it claimed. Are other areas also at risk? Experts believe that other tourist areas like Uttarkashi and Nainital are also at risk of land sinking, putting the lives of hundreds and thousands of people at risk. Dr Bahadur Singh Kotlia, Professor of Geology at Kumaun University, told India Today that the main new reason behind the sudden sinking is because of the reactivation of the Main Central Thrust (MCT-2)— a geological fault where the Indian Plate has pushed under the Eurasian Plate along the Himalayas. "This MCT-2 zone has reactivated, which is causing the sinking of ground in Joshimath and no geologist can predict when this reactivation will happen. We have been warning governments for two decades now, but it was all ignored till now. You cannot fight geology, you cannot fight and win with nature," says Dr Bahadur Singh Kotlia, Professor of Geology at Kumaun University. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Joshimath ground subsidence: PMO holds high-level meeting, officials told to assess situation on ground

uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, News on Uttarakhand, stories on Uttarakhand, articles on Uttarakhand, Uttarakhand stories at Wion, Uttarakhand news, Uttarakhand latest news