Heavy rain continued in Dehradun on Tuesday, affecting normal life across the city. Authorities have stepped up precautions as the weather department has predicted more rainfall in Uttarakhand over the next few days.
The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain in the mountainous districts of the Garhwal region on Tuesday. Rain is expected to continue in different parts of the state till August 21, raising the risk of waterlogging, landslides and road disruptions in vulnerable areas.
Authorities have asked pilgrims, tourists and residents to check weather updates before travelling. People have also been advised to keep away from rivers, streams and other water bodies, as water levels can rise quickly during heavy rain.
Rain and landslides have affected road connectivity in several parts of Uttarakhand. Nearly 97 roads are blocked at present, while teams are working to remove debris and reopen the affected routes.
In Dehradun, all schools from Classes 1 to 12 were closed on Tuesday as a precaution. Anganwadi centres in the district were also shut for the day due to the forecast of heavy rain and concerns over the safety of students and staff.
The latest spell comes amid increased monsoon activity in the state. The India Meteorological Department had earlier predicted a fresh spell of rain from August 14 to 17, including heavy to very heavy rainfall at some isolated places.
Uttarakhand has faced several weather-related disruptions in recent weeks. Earlier this month, a landslide on the Mussoorie-Dehradun road led to traffic jams stretching for several kilometres, underlining the risks posed to road travel during the monsoon.
In another recent incident, seven workers died and one remained missing after water and debris entered an under-construction tunnel in Chamoli following a landslide. Fourteen workers were rescued and shifted to hospital.
Dehradun has also seen sharp rises in river levels during earlier spells of heavy rain. The Tamsa River near the historic Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple has risen rapidly in the past, raising concerns about flooding in and around the temple area.
The Tamsa River again recorded a significant rise on Tuesday after rain continued through the night. The river passes close to the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, making the situation important for people living in and visiting the area.
The administration and other agencies are keeping a close watch on the situation. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain careful in areas vulnerable to waterlogging, landslides and sudden increases in river levels.
With rain likely to continue until August 21, authorities are maintaining vigilance across the state. People, especially those travelling to hill districts and pilgrimage routes, have been advised to check the latest weather warnings before setting out.
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