Uttarakhand on High Alert: CM Dhami Mobilizes Forces as Monsoon Fury Looms

Uttarakhand is bracing for a significant meteorological challenge as Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued a stringent 24x7 alert across the state. With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, particularly in the Kumaon region, authorities are mobilizing all resources to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety during the peak monsoon season.

In a high-level meeting, CM Dhami underscored the critical need for absolute vigilance and prompt action.

He directed all district magistrates to activate their respective control rooms around the clock, ensuring continuous monitoring and swift response to any emerging situation. The Chief Minister emphasized that all departments, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, health services, and district administrations, must remain on high alert and fully prepared to handle emergencies such as landslides, flash floods, and disruptions to essential services.

Crucially, CM Dhami instructed officials to keep a helicopter readily available at a strategic location for rescue and relief operations in case of severe incidents or inaccessibility.

He also stressed the importance of ensuring the safe movement of pilgrims undertaking various yatras across the state, advising them to proceed with utmost caution. Furthermore, a strict directive was issued against government officials taking unnecessary leaves, highlighting the need for full staff presence during this critical period.

The IMD's forecast paints a concerning picture, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, and in some isolated places, extremely heavy rainfall, for the coming days.

The Kumaon region is expected to bear the brunt, with specific warnings for districts like Nainital, Champawat, Udham Singh Nagar, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. Other districts, including Tehri, Pauri, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Almora, are also on high alert for significant rainfall.

These weather conditions elevate the risk of natural calamities.

Landslides, a common occurrence during Uttarakhand's monsoon, are a major concern, potentially leading to blocked roads and isolated communities. Flash floods pose a direct threat to low-lying areas and riverbanks. The heavy rains could also disrupt vital services such as water and power supply, further complicating rescue and relief efforts.

The state has already experienced the destructive power of the monsoon this season, with incidents like a cloudburst in Bastadi village, Pithoragarh, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the weather.

These past events serve as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive measures and community cooperation.

Authorities are urging residents and tourists alike to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, especially to hilly and flood-prone areas, and follow advisories issued by the administration.

The collective effort of citizens and government agencies will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the impending monsoon fury and safeguarding lives and property across Uttarakhand.