The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rain in several hilly districts of Uttarakhand, effective May 19 and 20. In response, the Uttarakhand Police has urged caution among pilgrims currently undertaking the Chardham Yatra, advising them to stay updated on weather conditions and prioritize safety.
“We request pilgrims to travel carefully, consider the weather conditions, and call 112 in case of any emergency,” said police authorities, reiterating their preparedness to ensure public safety and minimise disruptions to travel and pilgrimage activities.
Meanwhile, neighbouring Himachal Pradesh is also on high alert as it braces for hailstorms, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. The IMD has forecast severe weather conditions for multiple districts on May 19 and 20, with the situation expected to remain volatile through May 21.
An orange alert has been issued for May 19 in seven districts—Una, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur—warning of potential hailstorms and thunderstorms. A yellow alert is also in effect for parts of the state on May 18 and 19, cautioning against lightning, gusty winds, and isolated rain or snowfall in higher elevations.
Heavy overnight rain on Sunday disrupted several areas in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, impacting transport and causing power outages. The IMD has forecast continued rain activity in mid-hill regions, with possible snowfall in high-altitude areas.
Local residents have been warned to avoid travel to areas that are prone to landslides or flash floods and to remain indoors during severe weather periods. State authorities are on high alert, and emergency response units are on standby for immediate deployment to avert risks.
In a positive development, the 126 MW Larji Hydroelectric Power Project in Kullu district, which had been severely damaged in the Beas River floods in July 2023, has been completely restored and is now functional.
The restoration was undertaken in less than two years. The rapid recovery of the project was facilitated by timely intervention and full support of the State Government emphasizing that the quick recovery prevented loss of substantial amounts of money.
With severe weather still posing problems to the Himalayan states, officials in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are keeping very close watch and seeking public cooperation to reduce the dangers posed by the agitated atmospheric conditions.
(With inputs from ANI)