Heavy rainfall triggered a landslide near Gaurikund, leading to the collapse of a hillock and blockage of the trekking route to the revered Kedarnath Dham.
The incident disrupted the movement of pilgrims, prompting authorities to halt foot traffic toward the shrine and initiate an emergency response.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has begun debris clearance to restore access. Meanwhile, pilgrims returning from Kedarnath are being guided to safety by deployed security personnel. Those en route to the shrine from Gaurikund have been asked to wait until the path is cleared.
Disaster response teams, including SDRF, NDRF, and local police, have mobilised to assist stranded devotees and ensure route restoration. Rudraprayag district witnessed widespread waterlogging and further landslides as rainfall intensified overnight, compounding the challenge for relief efforts.
The district administration is coordinating swift rescue and restoration operations, urging caution among travellers. While no casualties have been reported, officials continue to monitor vulnerable zones along the trekking path.
The sacred Kedarnath route, frequented by thousands of pilgrims during the Char Dham Yatra, remains temporarily closed until stability and safety are ensured.