Devastating Landslide Strikes Varunavat Hill in Uttarkashi

A massive landslide on Varunavat Hill in Uttarkashi, triggered by heavy rainfall, buried many vehicles and forced the evacuation of over a dozen families to safer locations. State and district officials responded promptly to the disaster, which revived memories of past landslides in the area.

A massive landslide triggered by heavy rains buried several vehicles and led to the evacuation of over a dozen families from Varunavat Hill in Uttarkashi early Wednesday morning.

The landslide occurred at 1:45 AM, following heavy rainfall in Uttarkashi and nearby areas. As debris and large boulders cascaded down Varunavat Hill, panic spread among the residents. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, although many vehicles, primarily belonging to local residents, were buried along the Gangotri National Highway and in the Gofiara Colony.

Upon receiving information about the landslide, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and district administration teams promptly arrived at the scene. Uttarkashi District Magistrate Meherban Singh Bisht stated that the affected families are being relocated to safer places. He also convened a meeting with senior officials to assess the situation and strategize for future emergencies. This incident brings back memories of similar landslides in 2003, questioning the efficacy of past stabilization efforts on Varunavat Hill.

(With inputs from agencies.)