The Uttarakhand State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) has issued a landslide alert for four districts—Tehri, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli—following a forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Geological Survey of India (GSI).
The alert, valid for July 7 and 8, identifies several subdivisions including Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Ukhimath, Ghansali, Narendra Nagar, Dhanaulti, Dunda, and Chinyalisaur as vulnerable to potential slope failures and road blockages.
In anticipation of the forecasted conditions, the SEOC has directed district magistrates and disaster response authorities to enforce high-level precautionary measures. These include halting vehicle and pedestrian movement during heavy rains, maintaining continuous communication, and activating all levels of the Incident Response System (IRS).
Emergency measures in full swing
Field personnel including revenue inspectors, village development officers, and gram panchayat officials have been instructed to remain stationed in their respective areas. Police stations and outposts have been told to equip themselves with disaster-response tools and wireless systems to handle any emergencies.
Government officials have been asked to carry rain gear, helmets, torches, and emergency kits in their vehicles, and to keep their mobile phones active and reachable throughout the alert period. Provisions for food and medical aid have been mandated, especially for individuals who may become stranded due to road blockages.
Tourist restrictions and school safety measures implemented
Tourist activities in high-altitude Himalayan zones are temporarily restricted, and special attention is being given to schools to ensure the safety of children. Educational institutions have been asked to exercise extra caution during this period.
Local agencies have been instructed to swiftly clear any blocked routes, whether they fall under national highways, rural roads, or local access paths. Earthmoving machinery and excavators are to be kept ready in landslide-prone and sensitive areas.
Public communication and control room vigilance
District information officers have been told to widely circulate the warning through print and visual media, urging residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel. Clear signage is being installed along landslide-prone routes to alert the public.
The SEOC has emphasised that any disaster-related incidents must be immediately reported to the state control room through designated emergency contact numbers.