Tragedy Strikes Uttarkashi: Multiple Workers Missing After Cloudburst at Hotel Construction Site

A sudden cloudburst in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, has caused a major setback at a hotel construction site, leaving eight to nine workers feared missing. The incident occurred late at night near the Yamunotri highway, as heavy rains battered the region, triggering landslides and disrupting infrastructure.

According to reports, the workers—believed to be of Nepali origin—were working at an under-construction hotel when they were swept away by flash floods following the cloudburst. The impact of the incident has also disrupted the Barkot-Yamunotri route, with the Silai Bend area among the most affected spots.

Speaking to PTI, Barkot Police Station SHO Deepak Kathait confirmed that teams are conducting search operations, though the harsh weather and blocked routes are posing significant challenges.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami addressed the situation through a social media post, stating that rescue operations by SDRF, NDRF, and other emergency services are in full swing. “I am in constant communication with officials on the ground to ensure swift and effective relief,” he said.

Adding to the crisis, Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey announced a 24-hour Red Alert across Uttarakhand due to the continued risk of heavy rainfall. As a precaution, the Char Dham Yatra has been suspended temporarily. Pilgrims have been advised to stay at safe locations such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Vikasnagar, with local authorities ensuring food and water arrangements.

This tragedy comes shortly after another landslide on the Yamunotri trek route, which left two pilgrims missing and several injured. The route near Kainchi Bhairav Mandir remains closed as debris clearance continues.

District Magistrate Prashant Arya confirmed that efforts are underway to reopen the yatra route once conditions stabilize. “Until then, the safety of pilgrims and locals remains our top priority,” he added.