SDC Foundation Flags Landslide Risk on Char Dham Route, Calls for Urgent Action
Dehradun: Landslides and traffic jams in Uttarakhand are becoming a major threat. They endanger both lives and the state's economy. Dehradun-based SDC Foundation has raised serious concerns.
Anoop Nautiyal, the Foundation’s founder, has released a new report. Titled "Mapping Landslides and Vulnerability Zones on the Char Dham Yatra Route - A Citizen-Centric Lens," the report highlights 20 major landslide-prone areas. These zones lie between Badrinath and Sirobgad. They pose a serious risk to both locals and pilgrims.
Nautiyal personally visited Badrinath in November. He documented these high-risk areas from a citizen's perspective. His report calls for urgent safety measures.
SDC Foundation has submitted the report to key officials. Dinesh Semwal from the Foundation handed over a copy to Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management. Another copy was given to Rajesh Chandra Sharma, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department. The report is also being shared with other concerned agencies.
Nautiyal warned that multiple sections of this critical route are either collapsing or highly vulnerable. Many stretches have already seen landslides. Some show deep cracks and severe erosion. If ignored, these could turn into major disasters.
He cited the recent example of Kwaraab. Landslides on the Almora-Haldwani highway completely blocked the route. Economic activities in the region came to a standstill. He also pointed out that persistent traffic jams are harming Uttarakhand’s economy.
The report includes five key safety recommendations. These focus on:
Strengthening damaged road surfaces
Installing retaining walls and wire mesh
Improving drainage systems
Setting up early warning systems
Ensuring regular monitoring and maintenance
The Foundation has urged the National Highways Authority, Border Roads Organization, and local administration to act swiftly. It also emphasized the need for quick rescue and relief measures during emergencies.
