Continuous heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand has severely affected the Kedarnath Yatra, with a major landslide blocking the pilgrimage route near Gaurikund on Thursday morning. A major disaster was narrowly avoided after a large portion of the hillside collapsed around 200 metres ahead of the Gaurikund gate, completely blocking the pedestrian route to Kedarnath.

A huge amount of soil, rocks and massive boulders fell onto the trekking path, bringing the yatra route to a standstill. Considering the safety of pilgrims, the administration immediately restricted movement on the route and stopped further travel towards Kedarnath.

According to eyewitnesses, the landslide occurred suddenly with a loud rumbling sound, followed by heavy rocks and debris sliding down from the mountain. Fortunately, fewer pilgrims were present at the spot during the incident, preventing a major tragedy.

Soon after receiving information about the landslide, teams from the district administration, District Disaster Response Force (DDRF) and other departments reached the site. Rescue and restoration work was started to clear the debris from the route. However, continuous rainfall and falling rocks from the hillside have created difficulties in carrying out the operation.

District Disaster Management Officer Nand Singh Rajwar said the landslide near Gaurikund has severely affected the Kedarnath trekking route. DDRF teams have been deployed at the location and the situation is being closely monitored.

Authorities have said the Kedarnath pilgrimage will resume only after the route is declared completely safe and weather conditions improve. Pilgrims have been advised not to believe rumours and strictly follow official instructions issued by the administration.

The Kedarnath foot pilgrimage has been completely suspended for the time being, and stranded pilgrims have been shifted to safer locations. Devotees have been asked to wait for further instructions before planning their journey.