Trekking – Kedarnath Pilgrimage Route Closed After Landslide Near Gaurikund
Trekking – The annual pilgrimage to Kedarnath faced a temporary disruption on Wednesday after a landslide blocked a section of the trekking route near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand. Authorities suspended movement along the affected stretch as a precaution, ensuring that devotees already on the route were stopped at secure locations while emergency teams began clearing rocks and debris. Officials said the decision was taken to prioritise public safety until the pathway could be inspected and declared fit for travel again.
Landslide Blocks Important Stretch of the Trek
According to district officials, the incident occurred near Chhodi, around one kilometre ahead of Gaurikund on the traditional trekking route leading to the Kedarnath shrine. A sudden fall of rocks and loose debris covered the pathway, making it unsafe for pilgrims to continue their journey. The obstruction forced the administration to suspend movement immediately, preventing further travel through the affected section.
The region has witnessed unstable weather conditions in recent days, and authorities have been closely monitoring vulnerable locations along the pilgrimage route. Although no immediate reports of injuries were shared, officials acted quickly to minimise any potential risk to devotees.
Pilgrims Shifted to Safe Locations
District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar said that as soon as information about the landslide reached the administration, pilgrims were prevented from moving toward the affected area. They were guided to secure locations where they could wait safely until further instructions were issued.
The official urged visitors to cooperate with field personnel and avoid attempting to cross the damaged section independently. He emphasised that all decisions regarding the reopening of the route would be based entirely on safety assessments conducted by the concerned departments.
Restoration Work Begins Immediately
Soon after the incident, teams from the Public Works Department (PWD) and other government agencies reached the site with machinery and manpower to remove the accumulated debris. The restoration work began without delay, with the objective of reopening the trekking path as early as possible while maintaining strict safety standards.
Officials stated that the clearance process involves not only removing rocks from the trail but also examining the stability of the surrounding hillside to reduce the possibility of further debris falling onto the route. Engineers and disaster management personnel are working together to evaluate conditions before allowing pilgrims to resume their journey.
Emergency Agencies Remain on High Alert
The district administration confirmed that continuous monitoring is underway at the landslide location. Teams from the District Disaster Management Authority, local police, and other emergency services remain deployed to coordinate relief measures and regulate pilgrim movement.
In addition, both the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been placed on standby. Authorities said these specialised rescue teams can be mobilised immediately if the situation changes or additional assistance becomes necessary.
Officials added that maintaining constant surveillance over the route is essential, particularly during the pilgrimage season when large numbers of devotees travel through the mountainous terrain each day.
Authorities Advise Patience Until Route Is Cleared
The administration has appealed to all pilgrims to remain patient and follow official instructions issued at designated checkpoints. Authorities stressed that the trekking route will be reopened only after experts confirm that the affected stretch is completely safe for public movement.
Officials also advised visitors to rely only on verified updates from government agencies instead of unconfirmed information circulating through unofficial sources. The administration reiterated that the temporary suspension is a precautionary measure intended to protect pilgrims while restoration work continues and safety inspections are completed.