Statewide Situation Overview
Dehradun – Following the issuance of red and orange weather alerts by the Meteorological Department, the Uttarakhand government has amplified its monitoring and relief‑and‑rescue initiatives across the rain‑hit districts. Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan visited the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) late Sunday evening to assess the ongoing downpours, river levels and the broader impact on the state. He ordered all departments to cooperate closely and stay on heightened alert around the clock.
Road Repair Drive by Mid‑October
Referencing the mandate of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Chief Secretary instructed every district to finish a pothole‑free road campaign by 15 October. Officials were also asked to catalogue damage to public assets, tally any loss of life and ensure that affected residents receive compensation according to existing guidelines.
Char Dham Pilgrimage Guidance
The safety of pilgrims was declared the top priority for the Char Dham Yatra. The pilgrimage will proceed only after a thorough weather assessment. If heavy rain or blocked routes persist, travelers must be halted at secure locations and provided with essential amenities until conditions improve.
Continuous River Monitoring
Authorities were directed to keep a 24‑hour watch on river water levels and issue early warnings to downstream communities in case of releases from dams or barrages.
Protection of Vulnerable Populations
Special attention must be given to pregnant women, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and those suffering from serious illnesses during the monsoon. Pregnant residents in high‑risk zones should be relocated to safe shelters or medical facilities promptly, and helicopter evacuation should be arranged when necessary. To curb dengue spread, district hospitals, community health centres and primary health centres must maintain adequate stocks of test kits, medicines, blood, beds and staff.
Helicopter Rescue Operation Launch
The Chief Secretary also examined the rescue efforts for trekkers stranded in Uttarkashi and Bageshwar during high‑altitude treks. He directed that a helicopter‑based evacuation commence at 06:00 hours on 28 September. The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) has been tasked with mobilising sufficient helicopters and, if required, deploying additional aircraft.
Rescue teams must keep constant contact with the stranded groups, monitor their locations and health status, and ensure each aircraft is equipped with a satellite phone for uninterrupted communication in remote, network‑poor zones. All rescued trekkers will undergo immediate medical screening, with AIIMS Rishikesh and Srinagar Medical College on standby for advanced care.
