A tragic accident on the Kedarnath pilgrimage route occured on Friday. The unfortunate accident ensued near the Hanuman Temple in Sonprayag when heavy boulders and debris suddenly crashed down from the hillside. A local youth was killed instantly in the accident, while a man of Nepali origin sustained critical injuries. In the wake of the incident, the administration took immediate and decisive action, initiating the removal of shops situated in sensitive and high-risk zones.
According to eyewitnesses, large boulders suddenly came crashing down from the hillside with a loud roar, prompting people in the vicinity to flee for their lives. Reports indicate that the accident occurred while pilgrims and locals were actively moving through the area. The boulders falling from above suddenly struck several shops and the surrounding vicinity. Immediately after the accident, locals, the police, and administrative teams rushed to the scene to commence relief and rescue operations.
The critically injured Nepali national was immediately rushed to a hospital for treatment, where his condition is reported to be critical. Following the incident, the administration took immediate and decisive action, initiating the removal of shops situated in sensitive and high-risk zones. Officials temporarily evacuated the area, citing the continuous falling of boulders from the hillside and the attendant potential risks. Administrative officials stated that, in light of constantly changing weather patterns, cracking hillsides, and the looming threat of landslides, special vigilance is being maintained along the pilgrimage route.
The recurring incidents of landslides, falling boulders, and cracking hillsides during the Kedarnath pilgrimage have heightened concerns among travelers. In particular, several locations between Sonprayag and Gaurikund remain highly vulnerable. Locals warn that the continuous falling of boulders from the hillsides could lead to even more severe accidents in the days to come. They have demanded that the administration make permanent and robust arrangements for the security of the travel route.
