Dehradun, Aug 5 (IANS) Ten districts of Uttarakhand have been placed on high alert as the monsoon continues to batter the Himalayan state, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in several parts of the state over the coming days.
The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Wednesday in Dehradun and Bageshwar districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall. It has also warned of the possibility of lightning and thunderstorms at isolated places in both districts. As a precautionary measure, educational institutions in both districts will remain closed on Wednesday.
Heavy rainfall has also been predicted for Tehri, Pauri Garhwal, Chamoli, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Nainital, Champawat and Pithoragarh districts.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the state disaster management machinery has been placed on high alert to closely monitor the evolving weather situation and respond swiftly to any emergency arising from the ongoing monsoon.
In a post on X, CM Dhami said, “Considering the situation of heavy rainfall in the state, instructions have been given this morning to the Secretary of Disaster Management to remain on high alert. SDRF, NDRF, and all district administrations have been directed to exercise utmost vigilance and ensure immediate relief and rescue operations in any emergency situation.”
With the annual Char Dham Yatra currently underway, the state administration has also appealed to pilgrims travelling to the Himalayan shrines to remain extremely cautious and strictly follow all safety advisories issued by the authorities.
The Chief Minister further urged residents of Uttarakhand, along with tourists and pilgrims visiting the state, to exercise extra caution in view of the prevailing weather conditions. He advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and undertake journeys only if absolutely essential.
“Maintain a safe distance from rivers, drains, and sensitive areas, and follow the guidelines issued by the administration. Your safety is our utmost priority,” CM Dhami added.
According to the Meteorological Department, similar weather conditions are expected to persist across Uttarakhand until August 10.
–IANS
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