Heavy overnight rainfall triggered fresh landslides near Bhanerpani in Pipalkoti, resulting in the complete blockage of a crucial stretch of the Badrinath National Highway (NH-7) in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. The incident has caused long vehicle queues and significant delays for pilgrims and tourists en route to Badrinath as continuous stonefall and a large volume of debris have rendered the road impassable.
According to updates from the Chamoli Police and Chardham Police Control Room, clearance operations are underway, but persistent rockfall from surrounding hills is hampering progress and creating hazardous conditions for workers and travelers alike.
In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Chamoli Police stated: “The road has been blocked again due to debris falling from the hill near Bhanerpani (Pipalkoti) on the Badrinath National Highway.”
This same stretch had been briefly cleared on June 23, following an initial closure on the night of June 22, but recurring landslides have led to renewed disruptions. While other segments of the Char Dham Yatra route remain open, the authorities are urging pilgrims and tourists to stay updated through official channels before resuming travel.
Chamoli Sees Heaviest Rainfall in District
Recent rainfall data highlights the intensity of the weather system affecting the region. Chamoli tehsil received 93.66 mm of rainfall — the highest in the district over the past 24 hours — followed by Narayanbagad (22 mm), Gairsain and Karnaprayag (20 mm each), Jyotirnath (10.4 mm), Pokhari (5 mm), and Tharali (2.5 mm).
Advisory for Travellers and Pilgrims
All travellers planning to pass through the Bhanerpani–Pipalkoti section of NH-7 are strongly urged to proceed with caution, as road clearance efforts are ongoing and the risk of additional landslides remains high.
The authorities have strongly advised travellers to:
- Avoid non-essential travel through the Pipalkoti–Bhanerpani stretch until the route is officially cleared. Continuous stonefall and debris accumulation pose serious safety risks, and the situation may change rapidly depending on weather conditions.
- Monitor real-time updates from the Chamoli Police, SDRF, and Uttarakhand weather services.
- Carry emergency supplies, including food, water, warm clothing, and medicines, as delays are likely due to clearance operations and possible future blockages.
- Check weather forecasts before beginning any journey in this region, especially during the monsoon, when the risk of landslides and flash floods is increased.
The state government and district authorities are working round-the-clock to restore road connectivity and ensure public safety. Until then, patience and precaution are urged for all commuting through this sensitive mountain route.
Haryana Woman Killed in Separate Incident
Tragedy struck a family from Fatehabad, Haryana, who were on a pilgrimage to Badrinath. Their vehicle was buried under debris near the Patalganga tunnel.
Shilpa (36) died on the spot, while her husband Ankit and 10-year-old daughter Khwahish sustained injuries. Rescue teams responded promptly, and the injured were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
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