Heavy rain lashes Uttarakhand; 71 roads blocked, woman killed in Pithoragarh

Uttarakhand, India, experienced severe weather on Wednesday as heavy rains triggered landslides, resulting in the blockage of 71 roads and the tragic death of a woman in the Pithoragarh district. The downpour also led to the formation of a significant 600-meter-long artificial lake on the Ramganga River, prompting authorities to closely monitor the potential risk of flash floods.

The deceased, identified as Saraswati Devi from Syankuri village, was collecting fodder when rocks dislodged from a hillside above her. She lost her footing, fell into a gorge, and died. Officials reported that debris from the torrential rain on July 4 inundated the river, causing the water to back up and extend towards Bhaiskot village. This has raised concerns for the safety of approximately 600 to 700 residents across five villages.

Similar artificial lakes have formed on the Ramganga River following slope failures in previous years, including 2013, 2016, and 2024. Experts have warned that a sudden breach of the current impounded water body could unleash flash floods downstream. The rising water levels have also washed away temporary bridges, disrupting vital connectivity between villages in Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts and forcing residents to take much longer routes.

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Appropriate measures will be taken if required.

Local officials are inspecting vulnerable areas and closely monitoring the expanding lake. Debris continues to enter the river channel, contributing to its growth. Residents are being advised to stay clear of the lake's edge. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Thursday and Friday, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and intense rain spells across several districts.

Several areas recorded significant rainfall, with Chorgalia in Nainital district receiving the highest amount between 6 am and 9 am on Wednesday. The state as a whole experienced rainfall exceeding the normal average for the 24-hour period ending Wednesday morning, with Udham Singh Nagar district being particularly wet.

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Water is still flowing through the river, and people are being advised not to venture near the lake’s edge.