Massive Landslide Blocks Kedarnath Highway After Heavy Rain in Rudraprayag, Traffic Comes to a Standstill

The heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand has brought a landslide in Uttarakhand due to continuous heavy rain along Tilwara market in Rudraprayag district along a major Kedarnath highway that has stopped traffic.

Landslide blocks Kedarnath highway near Tilwara market | Photo Credit: https://x.com/KumaonJagran
Landslide blocks Kedarnath highway near Tilwara market | Photo Credit: https://x.com/KumaonJagran

A huge amount of rocks, mud and debris fell down from the hillside and has blocked the road and forced authorities to stop vehicle movement in the area.

The landslide occurred after days of heavy rain weakened the slope as Tilwara market collapsed. A huge area of the highway had been covered with debris and people were stranded and the local transportation was affected. Drivers were told to stay away from the road until it was cleared and declared safe, officials said.

The Kedarnath highway is one of the state’s leading mountain roads and a major pilgrimage route for thousands of people and tourists going to and from Kedarnath shrine.

District authorities and disaster response teams were on the scene. But heavy rain and unstable hillside make restoration work difficult. There is also a possibility of further landslides in the area if heavy rainfall continues.

The road clearing will begin when the weather is good enough and the slope is stable enough for machinery and workers to operate safely, the authorities said. People should stay away from the landslide area and follow official travel advice, the authorities said in a statement.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also predicted continued rainfall in various areas of Uttarakhand where landslides, flash floods and road disruptions are likely to occur in the state’s hilly areas.

Travelers going to Kedarnath or near places should be aware of the latest weather forecasts and traffic updates before traveling.

Residents living near the affected hillside have expressed concern about further slope failures. Local officials are inspecting the area to determine whether additional safety measures are needed to protect nearby homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.

Landslides are a recurrent problem in Uttarakhand during monsoon season because the mountainous area is prone to heavy rainfall and roads in the region are often damaged. This incident reminds us of the need to prepare mountain roads and highways for rainy season and the need for timely emergency response in Uttarakhand.

Restoring traffic on the Kedarnath highway remains a priority for authorities. The public should avoid unnecessary trips in landslide-prone areas and collaborate closely with the authorities to ensure their safety during the rescue and clearance operations.