Rudraprayag, India - July 31, 2024

In a sudden and dramatic event, a cloudburst occurred in northern India's Uttarakhand leaving many pilgrims stranded. The SDRF teams have been mobilized to conduct the rescue of the stranded individuals.

The incident took place in Lincholi on the Kedarnath walking route in Rudraprayag district on July 31.

Visuals showed the rescue officials handling operations in the late hours amidst continuous downpours. The teams were seen navigating through debris and working in coordinated efforts.

According to reports, the SDRF is conducting rescue operations and swiftly responding to the situation, ensuring the safety of individuals. Approximately 50 to 200 pilgrims are stranded near Bhim Bali on the Kedarnath footpath, where heavy boulders have rendered a 30-meter stretch impassable. Despite the extensive damage, no casualties have been reported so far. The administration team remains actively engaged in relief and rescue efforts.

Heavy rainfall has significantly raised the water level of the Mandakini River, causing drains to overflow. The continuous downpour and falling stones near Lincholi and Mahabali have transformed the river into a lake, resulting in severe damage.