Heavy rain in Uttarakhand: CM Dhami holds review meeting, asks officials to stay on alert

Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], August 1 (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a review meeting with officials at the State Emergency Operation Centre on Thursday morning, to assess the situation of rescue and relief operations in areas affected by heavy rainfall.
During the meeting, CM Dhami said that rescue teams had been active throughout the night, relocating people to safety due to the impact of the rains. "We received information about the disruption of life in many areas across the state. Consequently, rescue teams worked through the night to move people to safer locations," he said.
The Chief Minister assured that he is maintaining constant communication with the local administration. He instructed the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams to remain on high alert in the affected regions.
"I have directed officials to assist those affected by the heavy rainfall and to relocate individuals endangered by rising rivers and drains to safer places. Everyone has been instructed to stay vigilant," Dhami said after the meeting.
He also mentioned that relief and rescue operations are ongoing in severely affected areas such as Rambada, Bhimbali, and Jakhaniyali.
CM Dhami is staying informed about the situation through discussions with local administration and public representatives and has instructed them to assess the damage and take immediate action.
The Chief Minister emphasized that ensuring the safety of residents, as well as devotees and tourists, is the top priority. "Our entire team is working promptly to address the situation. We request everyone to travel only after obtaining updated information about the weather and current conditions," Dhami added.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert in Uttarakhand for the next five days.
Uttarakhand government has also issued a safety advisory for Chardham Yatra pilgrims amid forecasts of heavy rainfall across the state. Authorities have appealed to devotees to delay their journeys until weather conditions improve and to remain in safe locations.
DGP Abhinav Kumar has urged pilgrims and devotees to be cautious and to start their journey only after breaks. He emphasized the importance of staying in safe places and following local authorities' instructions.
"The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for heavy rain in most districts of Uttarakhand. Your safety is our priority," the DGP said. (ANI)