Chamoli (Rajeev Sharma): A portion of the Badrinath National Highway has been washed away near Joshimath, bringing traffic on the route to a complete standstill.
The damage has been reported on the stretch beyond the Joshimath–Marwari Bridge. With a sizeable section of the roadway no longer usable, vehicles have been stopped in both directions.
The disruption has affected traffic travelling along the important highway connecting the region with Joshimath and the Badrinath area. Vehicles cannot cross the damaged stretch until the road is made fit for use again.
Road washouts and other forms of damage are a recurring concern in Uttarakhand’s mountainous terrain, particularly during the monsoon. Heavy rainfall can weaken roads and trigger erosion, landslides and sudden damage to transport links.
The extent of the damage at the affected location is being assessed, following which restoration measures are expected to be taken. Traffic will remain suspended on the damaged section until safe passage can be ensured.
The Badrinath highway serves as a crucial route for local residents as well as pilgrims and visitors travelling towards the Himalayan shrine. The latest road blockage is therefore likely to cause inconvenience to people using the route.
Authorities are expected to focus on restoring the damaged portion and reopening the highway once conditions permit. Commuters in the area have been urged to stay updated on traffic advisories before undertaking journeys along the affected stretch.
