Uttarkashi, June 30, 2025 – At least nine labourers have been reported missing after a landslide struck a labour camp near Silai Band along the Yamunotri National Highway, following continuous heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand since late Saturday night. The impact of the rain has also led to the suspension of the Char Dham Yatra for a day, authorities confirmed on Sunday.
Landslide Hits Labour Camp on Yamunotri Highway
The landslide occurred 4–5 km ahead of Paligad, affecting a camp where 19 workers were residing.
“Nineteen were at the site. While 10 were safely evacuated, others were likely asleep or caught unaware,” said a State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) official.
Names of the Missing Labourers:
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Duje Lal (55)
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Keval Thapa (43)
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Roshan Chaudhary (40)
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Vimla Rani (36)
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Kalluram Chaudhary (55)
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Bobby (38)
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Chotu (22)
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Priyansh (20)
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Manish Dhami (40)
They were reportedly working on a hotel construction project in the area.
🔗Also Read: Char Dham Yatra Disrupted: Helicopter Services Suspended for 3 Days
Rescue Efforts Underway
At 2:12 am Sunday, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) received information regarding the incident. Immediate deployment of multi-agency rescue teams followed:
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Police
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SDRF
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National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
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Revenue and Health Department officials
Due to road blockages, the rescue teams had to hike to the site on foot. SDRF personnel are continuing ground-level operations to trace the missing individuals.
“Safety of the public remains our top priority. We urge people to rely on official sources and avoid spreading misinformation,” the administration stated.
Char Dham Yatra Suspended for One Day
In view of continuous rainfall and increased landslide risk, Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey announced a temporary halt to the Char Dham Yatra on Sunday.
“This precautionary measure was necessary to prevent any risk to pilgrims’ lives. Stranded pilgrims are being moved to safer zones,” Pandey said.
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The affected stretch of Yamunotri Highway has lost about 10–12 metres of roadway to the landslide.
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Restoration efforts are ongoing.
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A decision on Yatra resumption will be taken after a full weather and infrastructure review on Monday.
🔗Also Read: Kedarnath Helicopter Crash: 7 Feared Dead
Authorities Urge Caution Amid Weather Alerts
With landslides becoming increasingly frequent across Uttarakhand during the monsoon season, the administration has:
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Regulated traffic on landslide-prone routes
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Activated relief teams in vulnerable zones
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Advised pilgrims to stay at safe locations until further notice
The SDRF further appealed to residents and tourists to report emergencies only to authorized departments and avoid travel without updates from the administration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where did the landslide in Uttarkashi occur?
The landslide took place near Silai Band, around 4–5 km ahead of Paligad on the Yamunotri National Highway.
Q2. How many people are missing after the landslide?
Nine labourers are missing, and rescue teams are actively searching for them. Ten others were rescued safely.
Q3. Why was the Char Dham Yatra suspended?
Due to continuous heavy rainfall and potential landslides, the Yatra was halted to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Q4. Are roads in the affected area being repaired?
Yes, approximately 10–12 metres of the Yamunotri highway were washed away. Restoration efforts are underway.
Q5. When will the Char Dham Yatra resume?
Officials will review weather conditions and road status on Monday before deciding on the resumption of the Yatra.
