Uttarakhand Rains Disrupt Road Connectivity as NH-707A Washed Away in Tehri

Rishikesh, August 20, 2026; Persistent monsoon rainfall has severely affected road connectivity across Uttarakhand, with several highways and rural roads blocked after debris and rainwater damaged key stretches in the Garhwal region.

A major setback was reported on the Kempty-Yamunapul route, where National Highway-707A has suffered extensive damage beyond Dimta Bend in Tehri Garhwal. The affected portion between Dimta Bend and Jeevan Ashram has been rendered unusable, forcing authorities to divert traffic through Mussoorie Bend towards Vikasnagar.

The situation has also affected the Rishikesh-Kirtinagar corridor, where National Highway-07 near Devprayag has been obstructed by debris. Officials said eight roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana and seven Public Works Department roads have also been closed because of debris and rainfall-related damage.

Heavy showers across the mountainous districts have led to a sharp rise in water levels in several rivers and streams. In Dehradun, increased water flow has been observed in the Tamsa, Tons, Asan and Rispana rivers, prompting authorities to intensify monitoring.

Officials said some locations have received more than 200 mm of rain in a single day, increasing the possibility of further damage to roads and infrastructure.

The administration has asked residents and visitors to avoid riverbanks and other vulnerable areas during the spell of heavy rain. Public announcements are being used to warn people against taking unnecessary risks near swollen rivers.

Authorities have also issued safety directions for Char Dham pilgrims, advising them to remain at designated safe locations whenever travel is suspended because of adverse weather or road blockages.

With rainfall continuing, officials are monitoring damaged routes and coordinating arrangements to manage traffic and pilgrims until conditions improve.