Rare ruddy shelducks are first avian visitors to land at Uttarakhand wetland this winter

DEHRADUN: Following the season's first snowfall in the higher Himalayan reaches of Uttarakhand late Monday, a sharp drop in temperatures across the plains has heralded the arrival of migratory birds to the state. A significant contingent of rare ruddy shelducks (surkhab), among the first arrivals, was spotted at the Asan WetlandUttarakhands first Ramsar site and conservation reserveon Tuesday. A flock comprising 32 members of the distinctively colored waterfowl was recorded landing at the Asan Barrage, located at the confluence of the Yamuna and Asan rivers in Dehradun district, around 11:00 AM. Pradeep Saxena, bird expert and forester of the Asan Range, told TNIE, Our count using binoculars confirmed the arrival of this first batch of 32 rare ruddy shelducks. We anticipate more flocks of their kind arriving within the next few days. The Asan Wetland, situated about 40 km from Dehradun city near Vikasnagar, typically welcomes these avian visitors from cold regions like Siberia in the first week of October. The birds stay until March, returning to their native lands as summer approaches. To prepare for the influx, authorities are currently undertaking maintenance work. The bird-watching towers are being cleaned, and the mudflats are being repaired, Saxena noted. These mudflats are crucial as they create an optimal environment for the migratory birds, making it easier for enthusiasts and photographers to observe them. The arrival of the ruddy shelduck is significant as they are usually the first species to migrate to the area, instantly drawing attention due to their striking, gold-gleaming plumage. Divisional Forest Officer of Chakrata Forest Division, Vaibhav Kumar Singh, recently visited the wetland, instructing staff to clear overgrown bushes and restore old mud structures. The 444.4-hectare Asan Wetland, established as a conservation reserve in 2005, is a biodiversity hotspot. It hosts a wide array of species, including the painted stork, Eurasian wigeon, gadwall, and various cormorants and herons. A particularly noteworthy resident is the Pallass fish eagle. According to Saxena, a pair of these eagles has been nesting here every winter for the last 60 years, favoring the highest branches of the semal tree due to their aversion to human interference. The Pallass fish eagle, easily identifiable by its white head and tail band, attracts large numbers of bird lovers annually, Saxena added. This bird also holds cultural significance; ancient legends describe it as a symbol of good fortune and eternal love, said to be two lovers transformed by the Gods who remain eternally separated by a river bank.

DY Chandrachud, Imtiaz Ali, Shobhaa De among speakers at Dehradun Literature Festival 2025

The seventh Dehradun Literature Festival, themed Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Voices of Unity, will feature prominent figures like former CJI DY Chandrachud and Imtiaz Ali. This four-day event, starting November 14, aims to foster dialogue and celebrate the unifying power of words. The festival will be held at Doon International School and is open to all, free of charge.

Buying land in Dehradun? New circle rates up by 22%

Uttarakhand has raised property circle rates by an average of 15%, with hikes ranging from 9% to 22% across the state. This revision, the first in two years, aims to capitalize on increased construction and land demand, boosting state revenue. Dehradun's Rajpur Road remains the most expensive locality, with rates now reaching up to 68,000 per sq m.

Rahul Dravid's son Anvay set to captain THIS state in Vinoo Mankad Trophy: Know in detail

Anvay Dravid, son of legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid, will be leading Karnataka in the upcoming season of Vinoo Mankad Trophy, which is scheduled to be held in Dehradun from October 9 to 17.

Uttarakhand bans cough syrups after nationwide alert over child deaths

DEHRADUN: In the wake of tragic child fatalities linked to cough syrups across several Indian states, the Uttarakhand Health Department has moved into high alert, prompting the state government to impose an immediate ban on the sale of two specific cough syrups Coldreaf and those containing Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide. This decisive action follows the emergence of two more child death cases in Madhya Pradesh on Sunday, triggering swift regulatory intervention in the Himalayan state. The state government is fully alert regarding the health of our children, and these immediate restrictions have been enforced as a historic precaution, said Dr R Rajesh Kumar, Secretary of Health, speaking to The New Indian Express. Dr Kumar confirmed that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been directed to carry out strict monitoring to ensure that the banned medicines do not re-enter the market. The Drug Controller has also ordered Drug Inspectors across all districts to seal existing stocks of these specific syrups in medical stores and initiate a full-scale recall. This proactive measure follows a nationwide advisory issued by the Central Government after similar incidents were reported in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The central advisory warns against administering cough syrups to children under the age of two and advises extreme caution for those under four. Cough Syrup death toll rises to 13, Madhya Pradesh Police arrest doctor Uttarakhand had already issued its own advisory on Saturday, which led to the formal ban on the sale of Coldreaf and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide-based syrups manufactured in Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan. Sunday's crackdown involved extensive raids on medical stores and hospitals. Additional Commissioner Tajwar Singh confirmed the ongoing inspection drive: So far, 49 samples have been collected from the factories of cough syrup manufacturers, medical stores, and government hospitals, and have been sent for laboratory testing. He added that, as a precautionary measure, syrups intended for adults are also being tested, ensuring comprehensive scrutiny of all manufacturers. Retailers and chemist associations have assured full compliance with the governments directive. Manish Nanda, District President of the Dehradun Chemists Association, told TNIE, Following the advisory issued across the state, we have removed the two banned cough syrups from all retailers and packed them for return to the companies. Members have also been instructed to remove the medicines from their own stock. Ravi Gupta, a pharmacist operating at Dwarka Chowk on East Canal Road in Dehradun, confirmed compliance: After the government order and advisory, we instantly removed the flagged and banned cough syrups from our shelves. As investigations and testing continue, authorities in Uttarakhand have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring accountability across the supply chain. Doctors issue clarification on safe use of cough syrups in children

Urban solution for rural dairy ecosystem; Building a consumer-centric nutraceutical brand

Gomini operates on a decentralised model designed to make cow preservation commercially viable while empowering farmers. In 2021, Sargam Dhawan Bhayana joined Planet Herbs Lifesciences as Director, initiating a strategic shift for the Dehradun-based herbal and nutraceutical company.

Uttarakhand: Students armed with sticks as leopard sightings rise

DEHRADUN: School-going children in Uttarakhand's Sanglakoti were seen carrying sticks following a recent rise in leopard sightings in the region. Students of the Inter College in Sanglakoti, situated on the border of the Ekeshwar and Pokhra blocks, have begun to carry sticks with them as several students from Mayalgaon in Pokhra block reported three leopards near the school route on Tuesday. Before the leopards could attack, we shouted loudly and ran back towards the village to save our lives, one student recounted. Parents and teachers have been on high alert and many parents are escorting their children at least halfway to the institution. The children are frightened after seeing the leopard and are reluctant to come to school. Although the impact is minor, attendance has been affected, which directly impacts their studies, stated Sanjay Rawat, the school's principal. The school draws students from numerous villages across both blocks. Principal Rawat confirmed that the Forest Department offices in Pokhra and Damdeval ranges have been notified. Teachers and parents are urgently demanding increased patrolling by forest personnel to ensure the safety of students and staff. The threat is substantiated by grim statistics. Internal Forest Department records reveal a harrowing decade: between 2014 and 2024, leopard attacks resulted in 219 human fatalities and injured 1,019 people across the state. The trend continues this year. From January to September 2025, wildlife attacks have claimed 27 lives and injured 138 people. Leopards were responsible for six of those deaths and 25 injuries during this period. Experts suggest that habitat pressure is driving the conflict. Dr Saket Badola, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve, explained the ecological pressure: The tiger naturally does not allow any other animal to maintain its dominance in the forests. Since the tiger is much stronger, the leopard does not go for conflict. Wildlife expert Parag Madhukar Dhakate added that this dominance struggle forces leopards out of core reserves. Tigers assert their authority in their territories, intimidating leopards and compelling them to vacate the area. As a result, the leopard population in wildlife reserves, such as Corbett and Rajaji, has noticeably declined, potentially pushing them into human-dominated landscapes and escalating conflict incidents like the one near Sanglakoti.

22-Year-Old Merchant Navy Cadet Missing From Ship Off Sri Lankan Coast, Family Seeks Help

Karandeep Singh Rana, a 22-year-old merchant navy cadet from Dehradun, went missing from an oil tanker off Sri Lanka. His family seeks urgent help from CM Pushkar Singh Dhami.

Uttarakhand launches raids on medical stores amid child deaths linked to cough syrups

DEHRADUN: In the wake of tragic child fatalities linked to contaminated cough syrups in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, the Uttarakhand government has initiated a stringent, state-wide crackdown on all banned cough syrups and medicines. Health officials are conducting intensive raids across pharmacies, wholesalers, and hospital dispensaries. The swift action comes directly on the directives of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Health Minister Dr Dhan Singh Rawat, with joint teams from the Health Department and the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) sweeping through all districts. The government has termed the issue a critical matter of public health, warranting immediate intervention. Dr R. Rajesh Kumar, Uttarakhand's Health Secretary and Commissioner of the FDA, has issued firm orders to all Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) to implement the Central Government's advisory immediately. There is no subject more paramount than the safety of our children and public health, stated Dr Kumar. He explicitly instructed Drug Inspectors to systematically collect samples of cough syrups for laboratory testing to ensure any faulty or harmful medication is immediately removed from the market. Speaking to TNIE , Dr Kumar added, All practising physicians in the state have been urged to take cognisance of the central advisory and refrain from prescribing the banned cough syrups for pediatric use. The enforcement drive is currently being executed on a war footing under the leadership of Tajbar Singh Jaggi, Additional Commissioner of the FDA and Drug Controller. MP bans Coldrif cough syrup after 11 children die of suspected kidney failure within a month Mr Jaggi personally inspected drug stores in sensitive areas of Dehradun, including Jogiwaala and Mohkampur. Drug Inspectors across the state have been tasked with collecting samples from government hospitals, Primary Health Centres, and retail outlets within the month for thorough laboratory analysis. FDA teams are active across the state, confirmed Mr. Jaggi. If any lapse is found at any level, strict legal action will be initiated against the concerned company or vendor. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reiterated the administration's commitment to public safety. There will be no compromise on the safety of our children and the health of the public, the CM stated. We are committed to ensuring that every medicine sold in this state is safe and meets standard quality benchmarks. Sources within the Health Department confirmed that syrups containing Dextromethorphan, as well as those combining Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, have been specifically restricted for children under the age of four years.

Three children go missing every day in Uttarakhand, raising concerns over child safety

DEHRADUN: A deeply alarming trend of missing children continues to plague the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, casting a dark shadow over its image as a peaceful haven. Despite intensified police vigilance, awareness campaigns, and frequent checkpoints, official data reveals a staggering and deeply concerning rate of disappearances. According to the latest report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for the fiscal year 2023-24, an average of three children went missing in Uttarakhand every single day. The report highlights that a total of 1,209 children under the age of 18 were reported missing during this period. The most heartbreaking statistic, however, is the low recovery rate, only 276 of these children have been reunited with their families, leaving a staggering 933 children still unaccounted for. The report further breaks down the missing minors, 408 boys and 802 girls were reported missing, of whom 128 boys and 148 girls were subsequently found. Comparative glance: Himalayan states (2023-24 Data) State Missing Recovered Himachal Pradesh 504 81 Uttarakhand 1209 276 Sikkim 22 13 Arunachal Pradesh 40 21 Nagaland 47 0 Manipur 89 24 Mizoram 1 0 Tripura 268 37 Social activists have voiced strong concerns over the persistent crisis. Anoop Nautiyal, founder president of the Social Development for Communities Foundation, told this newspaper, This situation is deeply worrisome, especially when the state police run 'Operation Smile' every year specifically to trace missing children. The opposition has sharply criticised the ruling governments handling of law and order in light of these figures. Mohan Kala, spokesperson for the Congress party in the state, stated, The claims of the BJP government, which boasts of a safe and tranquil Uttarakhand, have been completely exposed by this data on law and order. Furthermore, the image of Uttarakhand, famous nationwide for tourism and religious pilgrimage, has been severely tarnished. Kala added, There is much fanfare and photo opportunities when claims are made about finding missing children and reuniting them with their families, but the NCRB report released just two days ago has laid bare the reality of police performance. The NCRB report, which compiles annual crime statistics across the country, also tracks general missing persons cases. In Uttarakhand, a total of 6,532 individuals were reported missing in 2023-24, comprising 3,277 men and 3,255 women. Out of these, the police managed to trace 2,701 missing persons, including 1,688 men and 1,013 women.

Karur stampede | Justice and truth will come out, says Aadhav Arjuna

At the Dehradun airport, responding to queries from news agency ANI on the Madras High Courts direction for an SIT probe, he said the party was working toward bringing justice in this matter

Silent Death Traps On Dehradun Roads?: Unmarked Speed Breakers Send Car Flying In Spine-Chilling Video

The main problem is that the speed breaker has no visible markings, which makes it hard for drivers to slow down in time.

Dehradun Diary | PMs brother visits Badrinath Dham

Pankaj Modi, younger brother of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, visited the revered Badrinath Dham on Friday to offer prayers. He was warmly welcomed by the Shri Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) on arrival. After participating in the temple rituals, he received prasad from the authorities. Following his darshan, Modi and his accompanying guests called on BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi for a courtesy visit. They discussed arrangements related to the ongoing pilgrimage season. The temple is preparing for its annual winter closure, with the portals scheduled to close on November 25 at 2.56 pm. State BJP leaders see red over Rahuls remarks The Uttarakhand BJP on Friday strongly criticised Rahul Gandhi over his recent statements in Colombia, accusing him of tarnishing Indias image on foreign soil. State BJP president Mahendra Bhatt alleged that Gandhi repeatedly attacks Indian democracy whenever he speaks abroad. He called him the Leader of Propaganda, twisting the LoP acronym. Bhatt claimed Gandhi often insults national institutions. He further said Gandhi is only focused on gaining power by hook or by crook, despite repeated rejection. Instead of learning from peoples feedback and improving himself, he keeps challenging the entire democratic system, he added. 113-year-old Bageshwar bridge set for restoration Bageshwars historic 113-year-old suspension bridge over the Saryu river is finally set for restoration. A high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary has approved `1.8 crore from the Missing Link Fund to repair the deteriorating structure. Built around 1912 during British rule, the 51-metre span bridge is a crucial link connecting the town with the Baghnath temple and the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers. It serves thousands of commuters, pilgrims, and tourists daily. The revival of this old bridge is a long-awaited relief for locals. Once restored, it will continue serving as an essential route while preserving a key part of Bageshwars heritage. Narendra Sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com

Good news for Saharanpur to Dehradun commuters: THIS expressway to cut travel time between these two cities by...; its name is...

Although the official inauguration is yet to take place, one side of the expressway has been opened to facilitate smooth travel for commuters.

Paper leak scandal deepens in Uttarakhand as UKSSSC postpones another exam amidst CBI row

DEHRADUN: In the ongoing Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) paper leak scandal , the commission has abruptly announced the postponement of the examination scheduled for October 5. This decision comes despite Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami having assured protesting students at their sit-in site that a recommendation for a CBI probe into the leak would be made. The postponement, cited as a precautionary measure, has also cast doubt on whether examinations scheduled for October 12 will proceed as planned. Just a day earlier, the UKSSSC had claimed full transparency in its preparations for the upcoming test. However, on Wednesday evening, the commission suddenly halted the October 5 examination, citing incomplete preparations and candidate demands. The UKSSSC, already under pressure from demands for SIT and CBI investigations into the graduate-level examination paper leak, emphasised its commitment to conducting future tests efficiently. Preparations had been underway, with reviews conducted in a board meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan. UKSSSC Chairman G.S. Martolia had previously confirmed that preparations were complete, instructing candidates to arrive two hours early for the test. Yet, the sudden postponement left many bewildered. Dr Shiv Kumar Barnwal, Secretary of the Commission, later clarified the move: This examination has been postponed based on suggestions and feedback from the candidates, and to further solidify preparations at the commissions level. He added that clarity regarding the October 12 exams would be provided later. Amid the ongoing turmoil concerning the alleged involvement of a paper mafia in UKSSSC exams, Uttarakhand Congress Chief Spokesperson Garima Mahra Dasouni expressed surprise at the confusion surrounding the CBI investigation. The first thing is that a recommendation for a CBI probe has not been issued, Dasouni said. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami will send the recommendation for a CBI probe to the Central Government, and it is the Central Government that will decide whether a CBI investigation will take place or not. Dasouni also stated that the people of Uttarakhand have been deeply disheartened by recent events. She directly targeted the ruling party, accusing the BJP of a widespread loss of credibility. It is not just the recruitment bodies like the UKSSSC and the Public Service Commission that the public doubts, she said. The BJP itself has lost trust in the state because its actions completely contradict its promises.

'Drunk' Cop Crashes Car Into 3 Vehicles In Dehradun, Suspended

The SHO of Rajpur police station in Dehradun has been suspended after he rammed his car into three vehicles one after the other, driving allegedly under the influence of alcohol, police said on Thursday.

Wind causes towering Ravana effigies to collapse in Uttarakhand's Rudrapur before Dussehra

DEHRADUN: The festive spirit of Dussehra in Rudrapur was dampened on Thursday as powerful winds and rain caused the towering effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad to collapse before they could be set ablaze. The incident created chaos at Gandhi Park, where the grand burning ceremony was scheduled to take place. The massive figures, erected for the traditional 'Ravana Dahan', crashed to the ground, resulting in significant damage to all three effigies. Dussehra is being celebrated across the nation with great fanfare today, featuring 'Ravana Dahan' events in cities large and small. However, in the Udham Singh Nagar district headquarters of Rudrapur, the weather disrupted the long-awaited proceedings. The sudden change in weather brought strong winds and rain, causing the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad, which were standing in Gandhi Park, to fall, reported sources at the site. The fall resulted in the structures being damaged before the evening ceremony could commence. Organisers had meticulously prepared for the event, erecting the massive effigies in the ground. Both organisers and spectators were eagerly awaiting the evening ritual when the weather abruptly turned, subjecting the structures to the harsh elements. Fortunately, no one was reported injured in the collapse. It is noteworthy that the team responsible for constructing the effigies travels from Rampur every year, a process that takes over three months. This year's Rudrapur display featured a 65-foot Ravana, with Meghnad and Kumbhakarna standing at 60 feet each. Harish Arora, a member of the organising committee, expressed his dismay over the unforeseen disaster. The construction of the effigies cost around one and a half lakh rupees, Arora stated. The strong winds caused by the sudden change in weather led to the effigies falling and getting damaged. The fall of the effigies means that the traditional burning ceremony, a symbolic victory of good over evil, could not proceed as planned in Rudrapur this year, leaving residents disappointed by nature's intervention.

Five convicted after 13 years in Roorkee bridge collapse that killed three in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: In a significant ruling highlighting accountability in public works, a local court in Roorkee has convicted five individuals in connection with the collapse of a pedestrian bridge in 2012, which resulted in the deaths of three construction workers. Judicial Magistrate Shivani Nahar sentenced the five accused to two years of rigorous imprisonment each, along with a fine of Rs 10,000. The incident occurred on the morning of February 4, 2012, when the under-construction footbridge over the Ganga Canal near the Roorkee Municipal Corporation suddenly collapsed, plunging into the water and killing three labourers working on the structure. The case began following a complaint by one of the surviving workers, Haider Ali. He stated that he and four colleagues, Shamim, Jishan, Murali, and Dheer Singh, were working on the bridge when it collapsed. One worker, Qurban, was on leave that day. Jishan (resident of Bedpur, Bhagwanpur), Dheer Singh (resident of Shankarapuri, Roorkee), and Shamim (resident of Najibabad, Bijnor, UP) drowned in the accident. Haider Ali alleged that the collapse was caused by negligence and the use of substandard materials during construction. Following an investigation, the police filed a chargesheet against five individuals: contractor Mazhar Ali, Upper Assistant Engineer Chhabil Das of the Public Works Department (PWD) Roorkee, Haider, Anil Kumar, and Deepak (both residents of the PWD Colony, Civil Lines, Roorkee). The trial, which spanned thirteen years, concluded after the prosecution examined 13 witnesses. In her judgment, Judicial Magistrate Shivani Nahar handed down the sentences and issued a stern observation regarding systemic responsibility. The court noted that accountability for any construction failure lies with the central or state government and the agency executing the project. If an accident occurs due to their negligence, the entire responsibility rests with the Central or State Government and that agency, the court stated. Assistant Prosecution Officer Alisha Khan confirmed the details of the conviction, marking long-awaited closure for the victims families in this decade-old tragedy.

Lightning magnets: Scientists explain how Dehraduns limestone hills attract strikes amid construction chaos

DEHRADUN: A recent wave of devastating landslides across the Doon Valley, following torrential downpours, has raised serious concerns over reckless construction practices and safety norms in Uttarakhands capital. Geologists have warned that development, particularly in the foothills of Mussoorie, is dangerously encroaching upon highly unstable zones. According to research conducted by the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology in collaboration with the Department of Geology at HNBGU Garhwal Central University, the region spanning from Maldevta to Bidhouli has been identified as a highly sensitive zone. The primary reason for this vulnerability is attributed to the existence of a 10-million-year-old fault line, known as the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT), which continues to remain active. This fault line plays a significant role in the region's geological dynamics. Professor M.P.S. Bisht, Head of Geology at HNB Garhwal University, stressed the instability: The activity along this fault means that rocks millions of years old are currently overriding the Doon sediments, which are only about 25,000 years old. Normally, older rocks should be lower, but movement in this active fault zone is causing this dangerous overthrusting. This geological instability demands extreme caution with regard to new construction. Experts suggest that building permits on steep slopes in areas like Maldevta should be immediately halted, and building heights strictly regulated. The recent cloudbursts and lightning strikes in areas such as Sahasradhara have also been linked to the regions geology. Prof. Bisht noted that the same limestone sensitivity that led to the ban on mining is now attracting more lightning. Limestone hills, due to their specific chemical properties, generate positive energy on a large scale through ionisation, Prof. Bisht told TNIE. This process attracts atmospheric lightning. He elaborated on the mechanism: When oxygen from the rain interacts with atmospheric nitrogen, it breaks down nitrogen atoms, forming nitrates (NO), which release significant negative energy. When this energy meets positive ions, grounding occurs, and lightning strikes precisely where this grounding is generated. While lightning strikes cause rocks to crack, exacerbating damage during heavy rains, Prof. Bisht concluded that modern, advanced lightning conductors could mitigate the resulting structural damage.

Uttarakhand police forms SIT to probe journalist Rajiv Pratap's death

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Police on Tuesday formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the death of journalist Rajiv Pratap, days after his body was recovered from the Bhagirathi river, officials said. Pratap had gone missing on the night of September 18 and his body was found on September 28 near Joshiada barrage in Uttarkashi district. His damaged vehicle was recovered from the river bank on September 20. Earlier police had said citing the postmortem report that he died due to internal injuries to his chest and abdomen. Director General of Police (DGP) Deepam Seth said the SIT, headed by the Uttarkashi deputy superintendent of police, will examine all aspects of the case, including CCTV footage, electronic evidence, call details and statements of people last seen with the journalist. A technical evaluation of his car will also be conducted, he said. Seth said Pratap's family had reported that he had received threatening calls, though no complaint has been lodged in this regard yet, the SIT will also probe this aspect, he added. The DGP said that police had launched a massive search, with the help of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), drones and dog squads upon receiving information about Pratap's disappearance on September 19. Pratap was last seen driving in a CCTV footage on September 18 and his damaged car was found on the river bank two days later, he said, adding that an FIR for abduction was lodged based on the complaint filed by the journalist's family. According to Uttarkashi Superintendent of Police Sarita Dobal, the post-mortem report attributed the cause of death to internal injuries to the chest and abdomen, consistent with an accident. No external injury marks were found, she said. The formation of the SIT followed demands from opposition leaders, including Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who termed Pratap's death ragic and called for an immediate, impartial and transparent probe. In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi had said, There should be an immediate, impartial, and transparent investigation into Rajiv ji's death, and the victim's family should receive justice without delay.

Uttarakhand: Remarks against Prophet spark tension in Dehradun

Dehradun: Tension gripped Dehraduns Patel Nagar area after an alleged derogatory social media post against Prophet Mohammad triggered protests, prompting police to carry out a flag march on Tuesday night. Police said the people were asked to maintain peace and cautioned against any attempts to disrupt communal harmony. The situation in the area is tense Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Uttarakhand CM Dhami defuses protest storm over paper leak with bold CBI move

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami appears to have successfully defused the escalating student protests over the UKSSSC examination malpractice allegations by recommending a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe. The decision has left the opposition Congress unsettled while also neutralising potential dissent within the ruling BJP. Even critics within the BJP, including former Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat, who has often made veiled remarks against Dhamis decisions, were left with little option but to praise his handling of the crisis. At Rawats Haridwar residence, supporters reportedly celebrated with firecrackers. BJP state spokesperson Honey Pathak said Dhamis move reflected rare foresight. Comparing him with all Chief Ministers since the formation of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami has shown a level of foresight that makes it clear he has emerged as an extremely sensitive and student-welfare-oriented Chief Minister compared to his predecessors over the last 25 years, she said. For several days, Dhami had hinted at a deeper investigation. On Monday, he made an unannounced visit to the protest site at Parade Ground, where he directly engaged with students demanding a CBI inquiry into the exam irregularities. I see you protesting in this heat during the festive season. It does not feel good for me either, he told them, assuring that the government was committed to full transparency in examinations. He announced that the government would recommend a CBI investigation and also promised to withdraw cases registered against protesting students. The controversy began after three pages of the September 21 graduate-level exam paper leaked at a Haridwar centre. The government initially formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), but students continued to press for a central agency probe. Acknowledging the stakes, Dhami said he understood the dreams of Uttarakhands youth. I know the students here have beautiful dreams based on securing a government job after studying, he said, recalling his own struggles. The Chief Minister confirmed that while the SIT probe, supervised by a retired High Court judge, was already underway, the government would move forward with the CBI recommendation. He also noted that the SIT report would be submitted soon, which could even result in the exam being cancelled. The exam saw 1,05,803 candidates competing for 416 posts. Explaining his decision to meet students at the protest site rather than call them to his office, Dhami said, I could have called you to my office, but I felt the pain of you demonstrating here in this intense heat. He added that youth would play a key role in making Uttarakhand the best state in India during the Amrit Kaal of developed India.

UKSSSC Paper Leak: CM Pushkar Dhami Orders CBI Probe, Meets Protesting Youth In Dehradun

led by a retired High Court judge, has already begun its work and has been collecting evidence for several days.

Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee given clean chit in Kedarnath gold plating controversy

DEHRADUN: A high-level inquiry ordered by the Uttarakhand government into the alleged irregularities surrounding the gold plating of the sanctum sanctorum of Kedarnath Dham has found no wrongdoing by the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC). The investigation, headed by Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey, stated clearly that the 'BKTC neither purchased nor installed the gold itself.' Instead, the committee provided necessary cooperation to the donor facilitating the work, as directed by the state government. RTI activist Anil Semwal had sought details from the State's Tourism and Religious Affairs Department regarding the gold plating of Kedarnath temple's sanctum sanctorum under various points. In response, the Tourism Department has sent the applicant the correspondence pending at the government level and the investigation report of the Garhwal Commissioner. Commissioner Pandey, appointed as the inquiry officer, conducted a site inspection and reviewed the records. In his final report, he noted, The entire process followed established protocols. The report details the meticulous procedure. Prior to the commencement of work, teams from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and CBRI, Roorkee, inspected the 'garbhagriha' (sanctum). They deemed the work appropriate, provided certain conditions were met. The donor, Dilip Lakhi, through his authorised jeweller, first removed the existing silver plates from the inner walls. Approximately 230 kg of silver plates were safely stored in the temple treasury by the BKTC, the report confirmed. Copper templates were then installed on the walls for measurement, taken back to Delhi, coated with gold foil, and returned under heavy security. The installation of the gold-plated plates was carried out under strict police and BKTC supervision. Documents submitted by the donor list the gold foil weight at 23.777 kg. The temple committee has officially recorded this stock. The sequence of events began in August 2022, when the then BKTC President Ajendra Ajay requested necessary action to facilitate the gold plating via a donor. This was followed by a letter from the donor himself in September 2022, leading to administrative directives supporting the jeweller firm, James Impex Pvt. Ltd.

Rare nesting of Pallid Fish Eagle among 30 raptor species documented in Corbett Tiger Reserve

DEHRADUN: The famed Uttarakhands Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR), renowned globally for its majestic tigers, is proving to be an equally crucial sanctuary for avian predators. A preliminary survey conducted jointly by the State Forest Department and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has revealed the presence of an astonishing 30 species of raptors within the reserves boundaries. The initial phase of the survey, which aimed to catalogue the predatory bird population, concluded about two months ago, with the next phase currently underway. The findings have brought significant cheer to the Uttarakhand Forest Department. The survey confirmed that CTR is home to these raptors, with evidence allegedly suggesting permanent residency for several. Crucially, nests belonging to nine different raptor species have been documented. Among the significant finds is the nest of the Pallid Fish Eagle, a species rarely observed nesting in the region. Dr Saket Badola, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve, spoke exclusively to this newspaper about the importance of the discovery. Despite vultures being critically endangered, nearly all their species are present in CTR, Dr Badola stated. Furthermore, finding nests for nine other species indicates that these birds are actively breeding here. This area remains a safe habitat for many threatened species. He added that the ongoing survey is focused on collecting detailed data, including species profiles, population counts, and nesting specifics for these birds of prey. The initial survey has already documented several threatened species, including the Red-Headed Vulture, Indian Spotted Eagle, White-Rumped Vulture, Egyptian Vulture and the Indian Vulture. Nests belonging to species such as the Crested Serpent Eagle and Hawk Eagle were also located. Wildlife expert Ranganath Pandey noted the historical decline in vulture populations, often attributed to habitat disruption and the use of veterinary drugs in livestock. The fact that we are finding nests here signals that CTR offers a superior and protected habitat, Pandey commented. The discovery reinforces the reserves status as a vital ecological corridor, not just for big cats, but for Indias struggling bird of prey communities as well.

Rains bring relief from forest fires, but devastate Uttarakhand's green cover

DEHRADUN: While the monsoon brought a much-needed respite from the annual menace of forest fires in Uttarakhand this summer, the subsequent heavy rains have unleashed a new wave of destruction, causing widespread damage to forest ecosystems and vital infrastructure across the mountainous regions. The season saw a welcome reduction in forest blazes, as continuous rainfall helped keep the fire lines at bay. However, the intensity of the monsoon has led to swollen rivers and torrents, resulting in severe soil erosion that has washed away significant portions of the forests. The focus shifts abruptly from controlling fire to managing flood damage, noted a senior official in the Forest Department, speaking on condition of anonymity. This year, the relentless rain has caused substantial riverbank erosion, severely impacting forest tracts. The deluge has critically damaged essential forest connectivity. Forest motor roads, mule tracks, and pedestrian routes deep inside the forests have been heavily affected by landslides and washouts. Furthermore, infrastructure supporting forest operations, including check dams, Amrit Sarovar projects and vital irrigation pipelines, have suffered extensive damage. In areas where reforestation efforts were underway, the impact has been particularly harsh. Plantation sites across Terai Central and Champawat forest divisions reported significant losses, with saplings, including valuable Rudraksha trees, being submerged or destroyed. The districts of Uttarkashi, particularly the Dharali and Harshil reserve forest areas along the Yamuna valley, bore the brunt of the flash floods in August. Yashwant Chauhan, Range Officer of the Gangotri range, confirmed the scale of the devastation. The August disaster damaged approximately 100 to 120 hectares of reserve forest land in Dharali and Harshil, Chauhan told TNIE. We estimate that between 1,500 to 1,800 large and small trees were either uprooted or damaged. Chauhan added that this is only a preliminary assessment. The department is now commencing the arduous task of counting trees washed away by the water and those felled by heavy rain across all affected forest circles. While winter snowfall usually mitigates landslide risks, officials remain cautious about future instability following this years extensive soil disturbance. The Forest Department is preparing a detailed report based on ground surveys to quantify the full ecological and infrastructural losses.

Uttarkashi cloudbursts: Missing declared dead after 51 Days, centre approves death certificates for relief payouts

DEHRADUN: The individuals still missing following the disaster that struck the Dharali and Harshil areas of Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand have been presumed dead, with the Union Home Ministry granting approval for the registration of their deaths and issuance of official certificates. This crucial decision by the Ministry paves the way for bereaved families to access much-needed financial assistance under the disaster relief package. Fifty-one days after devastating flash floods swept through the region on 5 August, 67 people remain unaccounted for. The state government had urgently petitioned the Centre to relax the standard legal norms to provide closure and timely aid to affected families. According to official sources, the approval, issued by the Registrar General of India under the Home Ministry, bypasses the standard provisions of the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, which typically requires a seven-year waiting period before a missing person can be legally declared deceased. Speaking to TNIE, Dr R. Rajesh Kumar, Secretary of Health, confirmed the development, stating: We have received permission from the Home Ministry to proceed with the death registration process for those missing from the Dharali and Harshil disasters in Uttarkashi. Uttarkashi cloudburst disaster: Authorities to track missing persons using mobile phone location data To expedite the process, the local administration has designated the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) as the authorised officer for these cases, with the District Magistrate (DM) serving as the appellate authority. This move mirrors a similar exemption granted by the Centre following the 2021 Chamoli disaster, where hundreds of workers were swept away in the Rishi Ganga tragedy. The Home Ministry's decision today follows the precedent set in 2021, said an official familiar with the development. It reflects sensitivity to the immediate needs of the affected population. According to departmental sources, the process for obtaining a death certificate requires immediate action by the next of kin. Relatives must first lodge a missing persons report at the individuals permanent place of residence. This report will then be forwarded to the SDM of the affected area. Subsequently, a 30-day public notice will be issued, inviting objections regarding the missing persons presumed death. If no contrary claims are received during this period, the death certificate will be formally issued. Only after the certificate has been granted will families become eligible for financial compensation under the disaster relief provisions, Secretary Kumar explained. Uttarkashi cloudbursts: Khirganga destroys Dharali in 34 seconds; experts blame man-made disaster

Now, take e-buses to Dehradun from Greater Noida

Delhi Police bust cyber fraud gang duping people with cheap flight ticket scam

The accused is a 28-year-old tour-and-travel operator from Dehradun and a 30-year-old Uttar Pradesh resident. The duo was in contact with some Chinese nationals on a messaging app, police said

Uttarakhand exam row: CM Dhami denies paper leak, labels incident as cheating amid arrests

DEHRADUN: A major controversy has erupted over the Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) examination held on 21 September, following allegations that three pages of the question paper were illicitly removed from an exam centre. Despite public outrage, the state government has firmly denied that the incident constitutes a paper leak. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami clarified the government's stance, stating that a true paper leak would have occurred only if the question paper, which was officially distributed at 11:00 AM, had surfaced beforehand, such as at 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM, or even 10:45 AM. But nothing of that sort happened, he told reporters, insisting the incident should be categorised as an act of cheating rather than a systemic breach. Dhami also raised concerns about the timing of the report. If someone had received some questions, it was their responsibility to inform the police and administration at the appropriate time. Instead, the matter was concealed for several hours, he said, suggesting there may be a deliberate attempt to defame the entire system through social media. I will not call it a paper leak. You can call it a cheating incident. We have made a law for such incidents. Its not that there will be no criminals after the law is made, but they will be punished under it. Strict action will be taken in this matter too, the Chief Minister asserted. The alleged breach occurred at Adarsh Bal Sadan Inter College, Bahadurpur Jatt, Haridwar, one of the examination centres. Investigations revealed that three out of the 18 examination rooms (specifically Rooms 9, 17, and 18) lacked signal jammers, raising concerns over security protocols. According to police, Khalid, an examinee and the prime accused, allegedly left the exam room for the washroom 30 minutes into the test, took the question paper with him, photographed three pages, and sent the images to his sister, Sabia. She, in turn, forwarded them to Assistant Professor Suman, who provided the answers. Instead of alerting authorities, Professor Suman allegedly informed Bobby Panwar, president of the Uttarakhand Swabhiman Morcha, who then circulated the content on social media, fuelling widespread public anger across the state. The police investigation intensified soon after. Professor Suman was interrogated, leading to Sabias arrest. Sabia's confession implicated her brother Khalid, who initially absconded but was later arrested. However, Khalid's mobile phone, believed to hold crucial evidence, remains missing. Both Khalid and Sabia are now in custody. The Higher Education Department has suspended Assistant Professor Suman pending further investigation. In addition, K.N. Tiwari, Project Director of the District Rural Development Agency, has also been suspended. In Haridwar, SSP Pramendra Dobal suspended two police personnel, Sub-Inspector Rohit Kumar and Constable Brahmadutt Joshi, for negligence during their duty at the examination centre.

TOI Dialogues Uttarakhand: Celebrating faith, culture and creativity in Devbhoomi

TOI Dialogues Uttarakhand, scheduled for September 30 in Dehradun, will celebrate the state's spiritual heritage and artistic contributions. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami will attend the event, which includes discussions with actors, writers, and sporting champions. The dialogues will explore Uttarakhand's economic growth, cultural preservation, and success stories across various fields, featuring insights from thought leaders and artists.

Excentia Infra Launches Phase 2 of Excentia Tatva, Dehradun's Ultra-Luxury Landmark

With the Launch of Phase 2, Excentia Infra reinforces its commitment to delivering ultra-luxury, sustainable, and thoughtfully designed homes in Dehradun.

Students launch protest in Dehradun against paper leak, says anti-cheating law is no deterrent

Demanding justice for those who spent months preparing for exams and ended up losing it to paper leak, students alleged that the anti-cheating law remain no deterrent for the cheating mafias in the State.

Dehradun Diary | 96-year-old donates Rs 7 lakh for state disaster relief

Jabar Singh Rawat, a 96-year-old resident of Dehradun, has set an inspiring example by donating Rs 7 lakh to the Chief Ministers Relief Fund for Uttarakhands disaster reconstruction efforts. Rawat personally presented the cheque to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami at his residence on Saturday. Lauding the gesture, CM Dhami said, This act by Shri Jabar Singh Rawat is not merely a donation; it symbolises a lifetime of experience, empathy, and social responsibility. His spirit at 96 is an inspiration for future generations. The CM felicitated Rawat with a shawl, acknowledging his significant contribution during the states challenging period. Uttarakhand unveils Sports Legacy plan Uttarakhand is launching a Sports Legacy Plan to become a premier sports destination, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Friday. Inaugurating the Asian Cadet Cup fencing tournament, he revealed 23 new sports academies across eight cities. These will annually train 900 world-class athletes and 1,000 other players. Its a matter of pride for Devbhoomi to host the Asian Fencing Cup for the first time, said CM Dhami. He highlighted that the states Rs 517-crore investment in modern stadiums and Rs 100 crore in equipment is creating world-class sports infrastructure. This commitment, he added, is transforming Uttarakhand. Sara Sae secures top export award Dehradun-based Sara Sae Private Ltd, a global leader in oilfield equipment, has been honoured with the Star Performer Award for 2023-24. The award, in the Bright Bars & Other Diverse Products Medium Enterprise category, was presented at the 56th EEPC India National Export Excellence Awards in New Delhi, an event graced by President Droupadi Murmu. Managing Director Sumit Dhawan expressed pride, crediting the award to employees hard work and our global customers trust. Celebrating four decades of engineering excellence and now fully solar-powered, Sara Sae is strategically expanding into key Middle Eastern markets. Narendra Sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com

Uttarakhand excels in reducing school dropouts at higher levels, but primary education shows alarming trend

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand has achieved a notable milestone in reducing school dropout rates at the upper primary and secondary levels, emerging as the second-best performing state in secondary education nationally, trailing only behind Jharkhand. However, this achievement is offset by a concerning rise in dropout rates at the primary school level, where the state now lags behind several peers. According to the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 202425 report, released by the Union Ministry of Education, Uttarakhands secondary dropout rate has declined from 5.6% to 4.6%, placing it ahead of traditionally high-performing states like Kerala. At the upper primary level, dropout rates fell from 2.3% last year to 1.4% this year. Though still trailing behind states such as Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, Telangana, and Maharashtra in this category, Uttarakhand has outperformed peer states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. The UDISE+ report, which compiles real-time data from all recognised schools from pre-primary to Class 12, offers a comprehensive snapshot of the countrys educational landscape. However, this progress at the upper levels is contrasted by setbacks in primary education. Uttarakhand's primary school dropout rate has increased from 0.8% in 202324 to 0.9% this year. This is particularly troubling given that neighbouring states such as Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, both formed alongside Uttarakhand in 2000, have achieved zero primary school dropouts. Compounding this concern is the disproportionate ratio of teachers and schools to students in Uttarakhands basic education system. Despite having one teacher for every 18 students at the primary level, overall enrolment continues to fall, and dropout rates are inching upwards. Uttarakhands Education Minister, Dr Dhan Singh Rawat, attributed the state's success at higher levels to proactive policymaking. We were among the first states to implement the National Education Policy. We've introduced several innovative measures, high-tech and hybrid classrooms, and integration of school education with skill development, Dr Rawat told this newspaper. This focus on employment-oriented education has helped reduce dropout rates at upper levels, he said, expressing confidence in the state's long-term educational outlook. With the rapid strides being made to raise education standards, Uttarakhand will soon set a benchmark for the entire nation. The report ultimately reveals a dual reality: a state making commendable progress in retaining students in upper grades while grappling with foundational challenges in early education, challenges that will require urgent, targeted interventions to resolve.

Exam scam mastermind Hakam Singh arrested under Uttarakhand's anti-cheating law

DEHRADUN: In a swift pre-emptive action, Uttarakhand Police have once again arrested the leader of a notorious exam cheating racket, Hakam Singh, and his accomplice, Pankaj Gaur, just a day before a crucial written exam for graduate-level posts by the Uttarakhand Subordinate Service Selection Commission (UKSSSC). The duo was arrested in Dehradun on Saturday, accused of attempting to defraud six aspiring candidates by promising them guaranteed success in the upcoming exam for a hefty sum ranging from Rs 12 to Rs 15 lakh each. The breakthrough came after a joint operation by the Dehradun Police and the Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF), which had been maintaining a vigilant watch on suspicious persons. Dehradun SSP Ajay Singh revealed, Given the likelihood of anti-social elements becoming active during the UKSSSC examination and luring candidates, both the Dehradun Police and Uttarakhand STF had pre-emptively placed suspected individuals under close scrutiny. He added that confidential intelligence received two days prior indicated a syndicate was actively seeking large sums of money from candidates under false pretences of ensuring their success in the upcoming tests. While the investigation into the broader implications of the racket continues, Uttarakhand STF SSP Navneet Bhullar unequivocally stated, There is no doubt regarding the integrity and confidentiality of the upcoming examination being compromised in this particular case. Elaborating on the accused's deceptive tactics, SSP Bhullar informed TNIE , Interrogation of the arrested individuals revealed their intention to defraud candidates. If the examinees were to clear the tests on their own merit, the accused planned to keep the money. In cases where candidates failed, they intended to lure them further by promising to 'adjust' the funds for future examinations. Hakam Singh is no stranger to such controversies. Known as Uttarakhand's most prolific orchestrator of paper leaks, he previously spent 13 months in jail before securing bail from the Supreme Court. His notorious activities, which first came to light around July 2022, had plunged the state's youth into despair, leaving countless bright aspirants feeling cheated and disillusioned. His past misdeeds led to a cascade of cancellations, including the graduate-level recruitment exam held on December 5, 2021; the online Forest Inspector recruitment exam from July 16-21, 2021; and the Secretariat Guard recruitment exam on September 26, 2021. As more layers of his network unravelled, subsequent exams for vehicle drivers, instructors, workshop instructors, fisheries inspectors, head constable police telecommunication, and police rankers were also annulled. This time, however, Hakam Singh finds himself ensnared by the stringent provisions of the Uttarakhand Competitive Examination (Prevention and Measures for Unfair Means in Recruitment) Ordinance 2023. Unlike previous instances where legal loopholes offered some respite, this new law carries severe penalties: life imprisonment and fines up to Rs 10 crore for individuals and entities involved in organized cheating or paper leaks. The legislation designates such offences as cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable, applicable to individuals, exam centre management, coaching institutes, printing presses, and anyone associated with the examination process. Hakam's past operations highlighted two distinct types of paper leaks: direct leaks from printing presses for offline exams and sophisticated breaches of online recruitment examinations. Notably, his successful leak of the online Forest Inspector exam, which saw over 83,000 candidates, prompted the UKSSSC to abandon online examination modes entirely. Since then, no recruitment examination has been conducted online.

Uttarakhand: Paper leak mastermind, aide arrested in Dehradun

Police are also in possession of an audio recording in which the accused can be heard asking for 15 lakh from a candidate

Uttarakhand's Naini Lake temperatures boost fish survival, but signal global warming threat

DEHRADUN: Naini Lake, often hailed as the lifeline of Nainital, is now overtly exhibiting the profound effects of global warming, with experts noting a consistent rise in its water temperature. This alarming trend, however, presents a curious paradox for the lake's aquatic inhabitants. Historically, the lake's waters would cool to a frigid 3 to 4 degrees Celsius during winter. However, this level has now soared to approximately 10 degrees Celsius. Currently, the lake registers around 19 degrees Celsius, a figure that can climb to 28 degrees in the peak summer months. While environmental scientists view this as a significant concern from a climate change perspective, an intriguing paradox has emerged: the escalating temperatures are proving favourable for fish breeding and survival. There was a time when winter waters would almost freeze, leading to the annual death of thousands of fish due to oxygen deprivation and extreme cold. But conditions have dramatically shifted, local observers note, with the introduction of an aeration system supplying oxygen and the steady rise in water temperature, the alarming rate of fish mortality has almost ceased. Currently, Naini Lake hosts several protected fish species, and scientists anticipate a further surge in their populations in the coming years. This development is undoubtedly positive for local fishermen and the lake's biodiversity. However, experts caution that the long-term ecological ramifications on the lake's delicate ecosystem cannot be overlooked. Expanding on the broader implications, Professor Ashutosh Mishra from G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology highlighted the global scope of the issue. The impact of climate change isn't confined to lakes alone; it's extensively observed in oceans worldwide, he stated. Professor Mishra elaborated, Marine water temperatures have risen by an average of 0.8 degrees Celsius, severely affecting coral species within marine ecosystems. Moreover, the gender ratio among marine fish is becoming increasingly imbalanced, with female fish numbers rapidly outpacing males a trend that could disrupt the delicate balance of marine life in the future. Thus, while global warming appears to be a surprising lifeline for fish in certain cold-water lakes, it simultaneously rings an alarm bell for marine ecosystems and other aquatic organisms globally. This stark contrast underscores why experts are urgently emphasizing the need for vigilance and decisive action to control climate change before irreversible damage is done.

Uttarakhand weaves sacred tapestry: 161 ancient natural sites documented

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand, revered as 'Devbhoomi' or the Land of Gods, has taken a monumental step towards formally recognising the deep spiritual connection embedded in its landscape. For the first time, the State Forest Department has meticulously identified and documented 161 Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) across the state, offering a tangible testament to the ancient faith and profound reverence for nature defining this Himalayan abode. This landmark initiative maps the pervasive divinity within the state, encompassing sacred forests, groves, high-altitude meadows (bugyals), and pristine lakes. These sites represent a unique blend of ecological richness and spiritual sanctity, often embodying localised worship protected for centuries by community reverence. This is the first systematic scientific documentation that goes beyond groves to include lakes and bugyals, stated Chief Conservator of Forests Sanjiv Chaturvedi, who guided the year-long study, in conversation with TNIE . He added, Sacred groves offer a beacona model demonstrating that safeguarding nature begins with respect and community stewardship. Many of these sites are steeped in ancient tales and local folklore, connecting them to deities or significant mythological events. This deep-rooted cultural protection has inadvertently made these areas vital ecological hotspots. Researchers found these SNS play crucial ecological rolesregulating microclimates, conserving water, preventing soil erosion, and providing habitats for rare flora and fauna, including endangered species like Brahmakamal. These sacred spaces are widespread. In Garhwal, 46 SNS were mapped, including revered spots like Ulkagadi temple (Pauri), Anusuya Devi (Chamoli), Surkanda Devi (Tehri), and the iconic Tungnath (Rudraprayag) all rooted in pristine alpine forests. Other significant sites like Rudranath and Hemkund Sahib also blend spiritual pilgrimage with unique alpine ecosystems. Kumaon boasts over 90 SNS, many protected under local 'van panchayats,' including Dhwaj (Pithoragarh), Jageshwar temple forest (Almora), and groves near Golu Devta temples. Thal Kedar (Pithoragarh), Uttarakhands first biodiversity heritage site, also features over 200 medicinal plant species. Despite their profound value, these sites face growing pressures from rapid tourism, encroachment, grazing, fuelwood collection, and declining traditional beliefs. Sacred groves near hubs like Tapkeshwar and Sahastradhara already show ecological stress, underscoring urgent protective measures. To safeguard this heritage, the study recommends integrating SNS into forest management and conservation plans. It emphasises empowering local communities, particularly women and youth, through participatory management, combining traditional reverence with modern tools. Funded by JICA, this initiative underscores the deep connection between Uttarakhands ecology, culture, and spiritual identity. Of the 161 sites documented, 83 are sacred forests, 62 sacred groves, 12 alpine meadows, and four are revered high-altitude water bodiesNandi Kund, Satopnath Taal, Shri Hemkund Sahib, and Kak Bhusandi Taal.

Miracle in the rubble: Man rescued after 16 hours amid Chamoli cloudburst devastation

DEHRADUN: A devastating cloudburst and incessant rainfall on Wednesday night in the Nandangar area caused immense destruction, burying several villages under a thick blanket of debris. While dozens of people are still reported missing, five bodies have been recovered so far. Kunwar Singh from Kuntri Laga Phali village was miraculously pulled out alive after being trapped in the rubble for 16 hours, but his wife and two sons remain buried, with hopes for their survival rapidly diminishing. The adage, Whom God protects, no one can kill, proved true in Kuntri Laga Phali village, Nandangar, Chamoli. Inspector Pankaj Singh of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) told, Kunwar Singh, who endured 16 gruelling hours buried under the debris, was rescued alive through the tireless efforts of the NDRF, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local residents. His survival is being hailed as a major miracle, injecting renewed energy into the exhausted rescue teams. However, Kunwar Singh's two sons and wife are still trapped beneath the wreckage. Rescue teams are relentlessly working to save his family, but continuous rain and the sheer volume of mud and debris are significantly impeding rescue operations. SDRF personnel are attempting to cut through collapsed roofs with specialized machinery to reach those buried inside, but hopes for their survival are progressively fading with each passing hour. Monsoon havoc in Uttarakhand as cracked houses, sinking land displace families in Chamoli SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi told TNIE, Despite challenging conditions, our personnel are using hammers and various tools to break through the roofs and reach those trapped inside. Our teams are working day and night, striving to keep hope alive in this desperate situation. Chamoli Police also affirmed their commitment, stating that behind every brick of debris lies the hope of a life, and they will leave no stone unturned in their efforts. Notably on last Wednesday night, extreme rainfall and a cloudburst unleashed severe devastation in Kuntri Laga Phali, Sarpani, and Dhurma villages within Chamoli district's Nandangar Block. The incident occurred while residents were asleep in their homes. The sudden calamity destroyed everything in its path. While many managed to flee and save their lives in the chaos, some had no chance to escape and were buried alive under the debris. A total of five bodies have been recovered in this disaster so far. On Friday, three bodies (one woman and two men) were retrieved from the rubble, following the discovery of two male bodies last Thursday. The massive rescue operation is still ongoing, with fears that several more people remain buried under the extensive debris. 14 feared dead as landslides, flooding hit Uttarakhand's Chamoli villages

ECI launches Special Intensive Revision in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: In an unprecedented move to clean up the voter lists, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is getting ready to start a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Uttarakhand. This process will carefully compare the 2025 voter list with old records from 2003. Many voters will need to provide certain documents, especially if their names is missing from the list that is twenty years old. The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) office has begun preparations and held a planning meeting on Thursday. An important meeting with recognized political parties was led by State Chief Election Officer Dr BVRC Purushottam at the Secretariat. The meeting explained the ECIs power to carry out the SIR under Article 324 of the Constitution and the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The work is focused on getting ready for the SIR based on the eligibility date of January 2026. Voters will be divided into four groups for this big verification. Category A includes people on the 2025 list who are 38 or older and whose names are also on the 2003 list; they will only need to show a reference paper for verification. But Category B voters those on the 2025 list, aged 38 or above, but not on the 2003 list will have to follow stricter rules. They must provide one of 11 allowed documents, like a Passport, Driving License, Aadhaar, or PAN card. For younger voters, Category C (20-37 years old on the 2025 list) and Category D (18-19 years old), the rule is that they must show one of the 11 documents for themselves and also one from at least one of their parents. The 2003 voter list for all 70 assembly areas has been made public for people to check. Any voter who is not happy with the commissions decision can make a first appeal to the District Magistrate within 15 days. If they are still not satisfied, they can make a second appeal to the Chief Electoral Officer within 30 days. CEO Dr. Purushottam pointed out another problem to this newspaper, stating, The state has 11,733 polling booths, and each political party is required to appoint one Booth Level Agent (BLA). So far, only 2,744 have been appointed. This gap shows that more work is needed to be fully ready for the election.

Five more bodies found in rain-ravaged Chamoli, toll rises to seven

GOPESHWAR: Five more bodies were recovered on Friday from the rain-ravaged villages in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district as rescue teams dug through debris and waded through sludge in search of the missing. With this, the toll has climbed to seven. Two bodies were recovered on Thursday. As rescuers pulled out the bodies, family members of the victims broke down. Landslides and flooding triggered by heavy rain hit four villages -- Kuntari Laga Phali, Kuntari Laga Sarpani, Sera and Dhurma -- in Chamoli's Nandanagar area, about 260 km from Dehradun and 50 km from Chamoli district headquarters at Gopeshwar, on Thursday. Nandanagar is already reeling from land subsidence. Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari is in Nandanagar to oversee the search and rescue operations. On Thursday, 12 people were injured, including five rescued alive from Kuntari Laga Phali and Dhurma villages. Those seriously injured are undergoing treatment at AIIMS, Rishikesh, officials said. They said 95 people have been shifted to relief camps set up at Maria Ashram and Gala Godown with adequate supply of food and medicines.

Dehradun tragedy: Toll mounts to 20, 13 missing

'Never Imagined...': Moradabad Village Mourns As Six Labourers Die In Uttarakhand Cloudburst

The incident unfolded on Tuesday morning, when 14 labourers 12 from Moradabad and two from Sambhal were extracting sand from the riverbed near Vikas Nagar, Dehradun district.

Cloudbursts in Uttarakhands Chamoli leave 10 missing and villages isolated

DEHRADUN: A series of cloudbursts struck Uttarakhands Chamoli district in the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday, leaving at least ten people missing across three villages. The deluge and landslides, concentrated in the Nandanagar area, plunged several villages into chaos and cut off vital communication links. According to the State Disaster Management Department, ten people, including entire families, have been reported missing in Nandnagar, Sarapani and Dhurma villages. Authorities are working to trace them. #WATCH | Uttarakhand | Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari told ANI, A cloudburst caused damage in the Nandanagar Ghat area of Chamoli district on Wednesday night. Six houses were buried under debris in the Kuntri Langafali ward of Nandanagar. The District Magistrate pic.twitter.com/oNWiRwzxYw ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2025 The State Disaster Operations Centre said on Thursday that heavy rainfall had triggered a significant debris flow, damaging six houses in the Kuntari Lagafali ward of Nagar Panchayat Nandaprayag. Five people were reported missing from this area, while two were rescued. In Nandnagars Kuntrilaggafali, the missing include the family of Kunwar Singh: Singh, 42, his wife Kona Devi, and their two sons, Vikas and Vishal. Two other villagers, Deveshwari Devi and Narendra Singh, are also unaccounted for. In Sarapani village, 70-year-old Jagdhatha Prasad and his wife Bhaga Devi were reported missing, while Guman Singh and Mamta Devi from Dhurma village are also among those whose whereabouts remain unknown. The aftermath is most visible in Sera village, along the Moksha river, where the damage is severe. Sera had barely begun to recover from a similar cloudburst on 8 July before being struck again. Uttarakhand records unprecedented rainfall in September; Dehradun sees 1136% spike in 24 hours We had just started putting our lives back together after the last one, and now this fresh calamity has destroyed everything, said Arjun Singh, whose home was among those threatened. Preliminary reports said residential buildings belonging to Mahipal Singh and Avtar Singh in Sera were left precariously perched, with the Moksha river changing course due to debris and inundating homes. Agricultural land has also suffered extensive damage. Villagers said they fled for their lives in the middle of the night. The devastation extended beyond Sera. In Dhumi village, uphill, several residential buildings have become unsafe, while shops and houses in the Bagad Top area were swept away. Reports from Kunti, Fafli and Banjgarh in the Nandaprayag block also indicated severe destruction, with many homes buried under debris. The cloudbursts have crippled the regions infrastructure. Power supply has been cut off and roads have been heavily damaged. A petrol pump in Sera was buried in debris. With electricity down, mobile networks are non-functional, severing contact with the outside world. Our tears wont stop; we dont know what else to do, said a local, reflecting the despair gripping the community. Many residents reportedly fled to forests in panic during the cloudbursts. Villagers have managed to convey the severity of the crisis to District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari, appealing for urgent relief. However, reaching the affected areas remains a major challenge for the administration. As rescue efforts continue, official confirmation of casualties is still awaited, leaving families in anxious uncertainty.

Uttarakhand cloudburst: Five missing after landslide demolishes houses in Chamoli

At least five people were reported missing early on Thursday after a landslide triggered by a clouldburst demolished their houses in the disaster-hit Nandanagar in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district. The landslide debris destroyed half a dozen houses in Kuntri ward of Nagar Panchayat Nandanagar, the district disaster management centre said. #WATCH | Uttarakhand | Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari told ANI, A cloudburst caused damage in the Nandanagar Ghat area of Chamoli district on Wednesday night. Six houses were buried under debris in the Kuntri Langafali ward of Nandanagar. The District Magistrate pic.twitter.com/oNWiRwzxYw ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2025 Seven people were inside the houses at the time of the landslide, two of whom were rescued alive, while five are still missing, it said. SDRF and NDRF teams along with a medical team and three ambulances have been rushed to the spot, it said. A flood in Mokh river has also destroyed six houses in Dhurma village in Nandanagar area. Land subsidence hit parts of Nandanagar in August with cracks appearing on the walls of houses. People living in them had to be shifted to safe locations. Uttarakhand records unprecedented rainfall in September; Dehradun sees 1136% spike in 24 hours

Rains damage connecting roads to Mussorrie, hotels offer free stay to hundreds of stranded tourists

Hotel owners says over 3,000 travellers are stranded, unable to find their way to Dehradun; bid to fly patients from the ITBP helipad in Mussoorie fails; police ask people not to take out vehicles

15 Killed, 16 Missing In Uttarakhand's Dehradun, More Rainfall Expected Today | Top Points

Uttarakhand's Dehradun has been witnessing heavy rainfall since Monday night, leaving several roads, houses & shops damaged. 15 people have been killed, while 16 have gone missing.

15 killed, 16 missing in Ukhand rains

DEHRADUN, Sept 16: Cloudbursts and heavy rains overnight left a trail of destruction in Uttarakhands capital Dehradun and several other parts of the State on Tuesday as swollen rivers washed away buildings, roads and bridges, leaving 15 people dead, 16 missing, and 900 stranded in different locations in the hill state. Of the total fatalities, Dehradun district alone reported 13 and Nainital and Pithoragarh districts one each. Sixteen people are reported missing in different parts of the state capital, the [] The post 15 killed, 16 missing in Ukhand rains appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla says AI must serve humanity, not control it

DEHRADUN: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday delivered a strong message on Artificial Intelligence , asserting that AI must always serve humanity and should not be allowed to become a tool for controlling human beings. He emphasized the critical need for AI to be deeply rooted in spiritual wisdom and ethical responsibility, stating that only then can it become a force for societal good. Birla made these remarks while delivering the inaugural address at an international conference titled Faith and Future: Integrating AI with Spirituality at Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya in Haridwar on Tuesday. The event is a collaboration with the Future of Life Institute (USA). Underlining the true purpose of technology, Birla stated, The true purpose of technology is to enrich and elevate human experience, not to replace it. He acknowledged the challenges AI presents, but also highlighted its potential for innovative solutions. Calling for India's core strengths of morality and truth to be shared globally, Birla proposed that AI could serve as a powerful medium to disseminate the nations ancient wisdom and knowledge systems worldwide. Is ChatGPT making us stupid? Birla stressed that AI, as a powerful force, must be balanced with wisdom and patience to yield truly positive outcomes. He added that compassion, empathy, and human values will guide the convergence of AI and spirituality in the right direction, laying the foundation for a just and equitable future. He also highlighted AI's transformative potential in fields such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and public welfare, noting its capacity to significantly improve the quality of life for millions. Referencing Indias ancient ideals of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The world is one family) and Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah (May all be happy), Birla reiterated that AI development must be inclusive and equitable, ensuring that the benefits reach all of humanity. He expressed hope that this conference would initiate a meaningful global dialogue between spirituality and modern technological advancement, guiding humanity toward a more compassionate and ethical future. Oil to AI, the Great Game continues

Heavy rain in Uttarakhand: CM Dhami inspects severely affected Maldevta, Kesarwala areas in Dehradun

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday conducted an on-site inspection of Maldevta and Kesarwala areas in Dehradun district, which have been severely affected by heavy rainfall.

Uttarakhand: 200 Students Rescued From Waterlogged Institute In Dehradun After Heavy Rain

After receiving information about 200 students being stranded at the institute, rescue teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Corps rushed to the spot and pulled them out to safety

News18 Afternoon Digest: Cloudburst Triggers Flash Floods In Dehradun, India-Pak 'Handshake' Row And More

We are also covering: Yuvraj Singh, Robin Uthappa Summoned By ED In Illegal Betting App Case and Cloudburst Triggers Flash Floods In Uttarakhand's Dehradun.

Photos: Heavy overnight rain wreaks havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas

Dehradun: Heavy overnight rains at various places in Uttarakhand damaged roads, houses and shops, and washed out a bridge early on Tuesday, while many people are reported to have gone missing following the calamity that also triggered some landslides. Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman said damage have been reported from Sahastradhara and Mal Devta Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Dehradun Cloudburst Live: Rishikesh Chandrabhaga river in spate, Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple submerged

Video: Raging River In Dehradun Overturns Marooned Tractor, 10 People Swept Away

As news of widespread rain havoc in Uttarakhand's Dehradun comes in, a shocking video of a group of people being swept away by the raging Tons river has emerged. According to reports, this is a group of labourers, and six of them are feared dead

Houses Submerged, Shops Washed Away: Horrific Visuals Show Massive Destruction In Dehradun

Dehradun Cloudburst: Torrential rain and cloudburst caused severe damage in the city. Debris carried by flooded rivers damaged several establishments. Watch horrific visuals here.

Heavy Rain In Uttarakhand Today Is Not Cloudburst. Weather Official Explains

Dehradun saw heavy damage after rain triggered flash floods, inundating streets.

Sahastradhara Scarred By Cloudburst: What Is The Significance Of This Dehradun Tourist Haven?

Sahastradhara, located about 11-15 kms from Dehradun city, draws its charm from sulphurous hot water streams believed to possess therapeutic qualities

Heavy Rain Fury Grips Uttarakhand; Red Alert for Haridwar, Tehri, Dehradun

Dehradun, Sept 16: Relentless heavy rains over the past 24 hours have unleashed widespread devastation across Uttarakhand, triggering landslides, flash floods, and infrastructure collapse. Several houses have been swept into swollen rivers, farmlands washed away, and families forced to evacuate as disaster response teams work round the clock. In Rishikesh, the Chandrabhaga river overflowed, trapping [] The post Heavy Rain Fury Grips Uttarakhand; Red Alert for Haridwar, Tehri, Dehradun appeared first on Northlines .

Dehradun Cloudburst Live: Heavy rainfall damages properties, SDRF conducts rescue operation

Rains LIVE: Heavy rains cause floods in Dehraduns Sahastradhara; two missing

Damage have been reported from Sahastradhara and Mal Devta in Dehradun, and also from Mussoorie, an official said.

Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple flooded after cloudburst in Dehradun

Heavy rains struck Dehradun, causing the Tamsa river to flood Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple. The Chandrabhaga river in Rishikesh overflowed, stranding vehicles. SDRF teams rescued three people. Schools and Anganwadi centres in Dehradun district will remain closed. Cloudbursts in Sahastradhara caused waterlogging and damage. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami deployed teams for rescue and relief.

Three killed as heavy rains trigger floods and landslides in Himachal

CHANDIGARH: Heavy overnight rains pounded Himachal Pradesh, triggering floods and landslides that left three members of a family dead and submerged a bus stand in Mandi. The incident took place in Bragta village in Boi panchayat in Nehri area of Sundernagar subdivision in Mandi district, where a massive landslide buried a house with five family members inside. Villagers immediately launched a rescue effort and managed to pull out two people, who were critically injured and taken to the nearest hospital. Deputy Commissioner, Mandi, Apoorv Devgan said that three bodies have been recovered while two persons have been rescued. Superintendent of Police, Mandi, Sakshi Verma, said the incident occurred in the Nihri area when debris from a cliff slid onto a house. The heavy downpour has also caused widespread damage to both public and private property. In another incident, one person was swept away when a flash flood struck Dharampur market late last night. Officials said the rains led to floods in Son and Bharand drains in Dharampur, resulting in flooding of the bus stand, damaging a workshop, pump houses, shops and over 20 buses. A search operation is underway to trace the missing person. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri in his Facebook post said, Dharampur bus stand, over two dozen HRTC buses, shops, pump house and workshop has been damaged. Heavy rains trigger landslides, wreak havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas The flash flood caused heavy losses to local shopkeepers and residents as water rushed into markets and houses, damaging goods and infrastructure. Many people were forced to climb onto rooftops for safety, while several houses and shops near the riverbank were inundated. A hostel housing 150 students was also flooded, though all the students are reported to be safe. Shops have suffered massive losses due to flooding. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, an official said. District administration teams, supported by local volunteers and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), are carrying out rescue and relief operations. In Shimla, several vehicles were buried following a landslide near Himland in the heart of the city and the main circular road was blocked causing inconvenience to school- going children. It was raining heavily and around 1 am, we heard a deafening sound with trees and debris sliding down and immediately moved our vehicles to escape, Gautam and Rahul Shukla, who were sleeping in their vehicle parked near Himland when the landslide occurred, said. INTERVIEW | Must have political will for climate change mitigation

Three of family killed as heavy rains trigger floods and landslides in Himachal

Heavy overnight rains pounded Himachal Pradesh, triggering floods and landslides that left three members of a family dead and submerged a bus stand in Mandi. The incident took place in Bragta village in Boi panchayat in Nehri area of Sundernagar subdivision in Mandi district, where a massive landslide buried a house with five family members inside. Villagers immediately launched a rescue effort and managed to pull out two people, who were critically injured and taken to the nearest hospital. Deputy Commissioner, Mandi, Apoorv Devgan said that three bodies have been recovered while two persons have been rescued. Superintendent of Police, Mandi, Sakshi Verma, said the incident occurred in the Nihri area when debris from a cliff slid onto a house. The heavy downpour has also caused widespread damage to both public and private property. In another incident, one person was swept away when a flash flood struck Dharampur market late last night. Officials said the rains led to floods in Son and Bharand drains in Dharampur, resulting in flooding of the bus stand, damaging a workshop, pump houses, shops and over 20 buses. A search operation is underway to trace the missing person. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri in his Facebook post said, Dharampur bus stand, over two dozen HRTC buses, shops, pump house and workshop has been damaged. Heavy rains trigger landslides, wreak havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas The flash flood caused heavy losses to local shopkeepers and residents as water rushed into markets and houses, damaging goods and infrastructure. Many people were forced to climb onto rooftops for safety, while several houses and shops near the riverbank were inundated. A hostel housing 150 students was also flooded, though all the students are reported to be safe. Shops have suffered massive losses due to flooding. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, an official said. District administration teams, supported by local volunteers and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), are carrying out rescue and relief operations. In Shimla, several vehicles were buried following a landslide near Himland in the heart of the city and the main circular road was blocked causing inconvenience to school- going children. It was raining heavily and around 1 am, we heard a deafening sound with trees and debris sliding down and immediately moved our vehicles to escape, Gautam and Rahul Shukla, who were sleeping in their vehicle parked near Himland when the landslide occurred, said. INTERVIEW | Must have political will for climate change mitigation

Heavy Rain Wreaks Havoc in Dehradun, Neighbouring Areas

Teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations in the affected areas, while 300 to 400 people have been moved to safety

Heavy overnight rains, landslides wreak havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas

Heavy overnight rains at various places in Uttarakhand damaged roads, houses and shops, and washed out a bridge early on Tuesday, while many people are reported to have gone missing following the calamity that also triggered some landslides. Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman said damage have been reported from Sahastradhara and Mal Devta in Dehradun, and also from Mussoorie. Two to three people are said to be missing in Dehradun, and a death that has been reported from Mussoorie is being verified, he said. Teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations in the affected areas, while 300 to 400 people have been moved to safety, the official highlighted. Waterlogging in Tehri left people stranded at Geeta Bhawan, Suman said, adding that they were rescued. Also, a road in Nainital has been blocked by debris brought by a landslide triggered by heavy rain. Residents of Majhara village were on the road, having survived what they called a landslide that hit their dwellings early in the morning. They claimed that some people have gone missing. In a post on X, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said, Received the sad news of shops getting damaged due to heavy rains in Sasthdhara, Dehradun, late last night. District administration, SDRF, and police have reached the spot and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. I am constantly in touch with the local administration in this regard and am personally monitoring the situation. I pray to God for everyone's safety, he said in a post in Hindi on X. The chief minister's office, in a post in Hindi on X, said that Dhami has briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the situation in Uttarakhand following heavy showers. They assured the state of all possible help and asserted that the Union government stands firmly with the people of Uttarakhand in this hour of crisis, according to the CMO. Dhami is visiting the rain-affected areas of Dehradun district to review the situation on the ground. Local MLAs and senior officials are present with him. The state government stands with every affected family. The administration is already on alert mode and the NDRF, SDRF, police and local administration are constantly active, the chief minister said. Heavy rains caused the Song River to swell, flooding the nearby areas. Speaking to PTI Videos, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Sadar, Hari Giri, said, The water level is rising, and the flow is very strong right now. No deaths have been reported so far. Tourists were staying in the hotels. Waterlogging has been reported in Dehradun's IT Park area, with water entering many offices, leaving people stranded. I have been stranded here since 5:30am. There is a lot of water. The car here has been stuck since last night and is submerged. Water has entered offices and basements, said Hrithik Sharma, a local.

Dehradun Cloudburst: Schools shut after heavy rain and flooding

Following intense rainfall and cloudbursts, Dehradun schools and Anganwadi centres will be closed on Tuesday, September 16. The Meteorological Center warned of more downpours, prompting safety concerns. Flash floods damaged areas like Sahastradhara, with rescue teams deployed to assist and prioritize public safety amidst rising water levels.

Dehradun Cloudburst Live Updates: Heavy overnight rain wreaks havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas

Heavy overnight rains at various places in Uttarakhand damaged roads, houses and shops, and washed out a bridge early on Tuesday. Teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations in the affected areas, while 300 to 400 people have been moved to safety.

Heavy rains cause floods in Dehraduns Sahastradhara; two missing

The SDRF had to rescue over 100 people, including students of Devbhoomi institute

Dehradun news: Cloudburst damages several shops, restaurants; SDRF deployed

Cloudburst in Dehradun News: Dehradun experienced cloudbursts in Sahastradhara, leading to swollen rivers and damaged shops. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reported rescue operations by police and SDRF. In Rishikesh, the Chandrabhaga river overflowed due to heavy rainfall, flooding the highway and trapping vehicles. SDRF successfully rescued three people stranded in the river, ensuring their safety. The local administration is monitoring the situation.

Cloudburst Triggers Flash Floods In Uttarakhand's Dehradun, 2 People Missing | Updates

Two people are reportedly missing so far. SDRF and NDRF teams have rushed for rescue operation.

Uttarakhand: Cloudburst triggers flash floods in Dehradun, 2 people missing; rescue operation underway

A devastating cloudburst hit Uttarakhand's Dehradun, triggering massive landslides and flash floods that washed away cars and shops, with two people reported missing. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have launched a rescue operation.

Air India Express starts direct flight operations from Dehradun to Bengaluru

DEHRADUN: Air India Express on Monday started its direct flight operations from Dehradun to Bengaluru with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagging off the new air service at the Jolly Grant Airport. The Chief Minister described it as a significant milestone in the overall development of the state and the expansion of air connectivity. The commencement of Air India Express services from Dehradun marks a significant achievement in civil aviation for our state. Better connectivity with Bengaluru will greatly boost tourism, trade, and investment opportunities in Uttarakhand, he said. Direct air service between Dehradun and Bengaluru by Air India Express would also be a great facility for the youth, entrepreneurs, IT professionals, students, and tourists of Uttarakhand, he said. Bengaluru is the tech capital of the country and thousands of youths from Uttarakhand are engaged there in education, services, and startups. Now, they will have a more convenient, timely, and safe travel option to visit their home state, the Chief Minister said. It will also strengthen connectivity for students, professionals, and entrepreneurs with one of India's most dynamic cities. We welcome Air India Express and look forward to the positive impact this connectivity will have on our people and economy, Dhami said. In recent years, the state government has taken several major decisions from policy reforms to infrastructure development to strengthen air connectivity, Dhami said. We are delighted to commence direct flight operations from Dehradun to our largest domestic hub, Bengaluru. This shows the rapid expansion of our network, Air India Express MD Aloke Singh said. With over 115 aircraft now in our fleet, we are building a stronger and more accessible network that reflects the aspirations of modern India, he said.

Uttarakhand Congress demands CBI probe into land allotment to Ramdevs aide Balkrishna

Dehradun, Sep 15 (PTI) The Congress has accused the Uttarakhand government of giving 142 acres of heritage land of the George Everest Estate in Mussoorie, worth more than Rs 30,000 crore, to a company linked to yoga guru Ramdevs aide Acharya Balkrishna on an annual rent of just Rs 1 crore. The party on Sunday demanded a CBI probe into the matter under the supervision of the high court. Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee president Karan Mahara called it the biggest scam in the state so far. He alleged that the scam in the tourism development project of George Everest Estate

Uttarakhand villagers bar Nepali women, children from Kedarnath Yatra from 2026

DEHRADUN: Villagers in Gauri Kund, a key stop on the Kedarnath Yatra , have voted to bar the entry of women and children of Nepali origin starting from the 2026 pilgrimage season, a move that is likely to spark debate and alter the demographics of the sacred site. The decision was taken during an open meeting on Saturday, chaired by village head Kusum Devi and attended by a large number of residents. The villagers said the measure is necessary to uphold the dignity and sanctity of this holy land of Maa Gauri. Attendees alleged that over the past few years, several Nepali-origin women had been involved in the illegal trade of liquor and meat within Gauri Kund, compromising the spiritual atmosphere of the area. Despite repeated complaints lodged with local authorities, residents lamented that the administration's response has been limited to 'token actions,' failing to address the core issue effectively, a local elder, who wished to remain anonymous, told this newspaper. This perceived inaction, they assert, left the Gram Sabha with no alternative but to implement such stringent measures. Gram Pradhan Kusum Devi highlighted Gauri Kunds central role in the Kedarnath pilgrimage, noting that millions of devotees visit the shrine of Maa Gauri each year. The sanctity of this site is being eroded due to administrative neglect, she said. It is our duty to protect it. Clarifying the ban, Pradhan Devi added, While individuals of Nepali origin are welcome to seek employment here, bringing women and children will be strictly prohibited from 2026 onwards. This is not about discrimination, but about preserving our spiritual heritage. Supporting the decision, Ramchandra Goswami, President of the local Trade Union, said the lack of decisive action by authorities compelled the villagers to take this step. Speaking exclusively to this newspaper, Goswami said, Our primary objective is to ensure that devotees can undertake their religious journey without any impediment or disturbance. The incidents of illegal activities were creating an environment that was not conducive to spiritual reflection. Kedarnath Dham, one of Uttarakhands four revered Char Dham sites, attracts around 18 lakh pilgrims annually from across India and abroad, underscoring its importance to the regions spiritual and economic landscape.

Cabinet buzz grips Uttarakhand as MLAs flock to CM Dhami's residence

DEHRADUN: Dehradun witnessed hectic political activity on Sunday as several legislators headed to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhamis official residence. The series of meetings, coming soon after his return from Delhi on Saturday evening, sparked fresh speculation in the state. By Sunday morning, nearly half a dozen MLAs had met Dhami for individual consultations. Among them were independent MLA Sanjay Dobhal and ruling party legislators Sahdev Pundir, Khazan Dass, Suresh Chauhan, Bharat Chaudhary, Anil Nautiyal, and Pritam Panwar. While officially termed 'courtesy calls' and discussions on 'developmental demands,' the underlying agenda quickly became apparent. Speaking to TNIE, MLA Pritam Panwar acknowledged, While I primarily discussed matters about my constituency, other conversations (what you might be thinking) also took place. Panwar's veiled reference was widely understood to be about the much-anticipated cabinet expansion. During these interactions, the legislators apprised Chief Minister Dhami of various developmental needs and local issues within their respective areas. The CM, in turn, assured them of prompt action, promising to issue necessary directives to the concerned departments for the swift resolution of their demands. Significantly, he also hinted at a cabinet expansion at an appropriate time, further fueling the speculation. Dhami also reiterated his government's commitment to providing swift and transparent services to the public, emphasizing that active participation from elected representatives is key to effective problem-solving and developmental progress. He underscored the government's continuous efforts to strengthen crucial infrastructure sectors such as road connectivity, healthcare, education, tourism, potable water, and energy. The CM stressed that Uttarakhand's balanced and holistic development hinges on legislators actively conveying public expectations to the government and participating in the state's progress. While official sources within the BJP remained tight-lipped about the flurry of visits to the CM's residence, murmurs within party circles suggested a potential shake-up. There are strong indications that some new faces might be inducted into the cabinet, while certain incumbents could be dropped. Notably, five cabinet ministerial berths currently lie vacant in the Uttarakhand government. A section of the ruling party appears confident of a full cabinet reshuffle taking place after the 'Shraddh Paksha' period, traditionally considered inauspicious for new beginnings.

Couple Dead, 3 Of Family Injured As Car Overturns In UP: Cops

A 60-year-old man and his wife died while three members of their family got injured after their car malfunctioned and overturned on the Delhi-Dehradun national highway in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar on Sunday, police said.

Uttarakhand turns to satellites to monitor glacier meltdown, avert future monsoon disasters

DEHRADUN: Scientists are grappling with the unprecedented intensity of rain-induced disasters that have ravaged Uttarakhand this monsoon season. In response, the state's Uttarakhand Space Application Centre (USAC) is partnering with ISRO to conduct an in-depth study of these alarming weather shifts. Simultaneously, the Information Technology Department has announced a comprehensive satellite survey of all glaciers and snowfields across the state, with a particular focus on 13 highly sensitive glaciated regions. The urgent initiative comes amidst growing concerns that debris from rapidly receding glaciers played a significant role in recent calamities, including the devastating Dharali disaster. Experts draw parallels to the 2013 Kedarnath tragedy, which was largely attributed to glacial lake outburst floods, highlighting a recurring and perilous pattern in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. USAC had previously collaborated with the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) to survey 13 critical glaciers, submitting a report to the disaster management department. Now, they are escalating efforts, implementing a phased satellite monitoring program. This initiative will capture regular satellite imagery of all glaciers, enabling a meticulous study of changes and early identification of potential future disaster triggers. With over 1,400 large and small glaciers dotting the state's landscape, the survey will be conducted in phases, beginning with the 13 most vulnerable. Nitesh Jha, Secretary of Information Technology, emphasised the proactive nature of the project. Our objective is to develop robust action plans to mitigate any risks identified through these glacial changes, he stated. Dr. Vineet Gehlot, Director of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, revealed that WIHG is already studying 11 glaciers across Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, with six dedicated centers in Uttarakhand. Most of our observations indicate that glaciers are melting and retreating, experiencing a significant loss in their mass balance, Dr. Gehlot explained. He warned that glacial melt presents multifaceted challenges, including the formation of dangerous glacial lakes, increased flood risks, and potential water scarcity. Providing specific data, WIHG senior scientist Dr. Manish Mehta told TNIE , Glaciers are receding at an alarming rate of 5 to 20 meters per year. In Zanskar, two glaciers are retreating by 20 meters annually, while the Chorabari glacier is shrinking by 6 to 8 meters per year. These figures paint a stark picture of the rapid changes occurring in the high Himalayas. The escalating water levels in Uttarakhand's rivers are a direct consequence of both heavy rainfall and significant glacial melt, leading to increased siltation and heightened flood threats in downstream areas. Geologists caution that if the health of these glaciers doesn't improve, the risk of catastrophic flooding in riverine settlements will intensify significantly. Professor H.C. Nainwal of the Geology Department at Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal Central University corroborated these findings, stating that glaciers in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are receding by 5 to 20 meters annually, with a concerning reduction in their thickness. He highlighted that 'hanging glaciers' are particularly prone to breaking, escalating avalanche incidents. Professor Nainwal primarily attributes the rapid glacial retreat to global temperature changes and greenhouse gas emissions, including those from forest fires, which further exacerbate the problem. The 13 identified sensitive glaciers are spread across several districts: four in Chamoli (including Vasudhara Tal), Kedartal in Uttarkashi, Nag Kund in Bageshwar, Mussoorie Tal in Tehri Garhwal, and six glaciers in Pithoragarh (including Mabang and Pyungru).

Mauritius PM Ramgoolam lauds Uttarakhands serene beauty during four-day visit

DEHRADUN: Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the Prime Minister of Mauritius, arrived in Uttarakhand on Friday for a four-day official visit, receiving a grand welcome that highlighted the states growing international appeal. The visit is expected to bolster cultural ties and explore avenues for tourism cooperation between the two regions. The Prime Minister, accompanied by his wife Veena Ramgoolam, landed at Dehraduns Jolly Grant Airport around 3 pm aboard a special aircraft. He was warmly greeted by a high-level delegation, including Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, DGP Deepam Seth, Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal, and Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Kumar. As his motorcade proceeded towards Narendra Nagar, the route was lined with enthusiastic school students and NCC cadets, who waved flags and cheered. At Indramani Badoni Chowk, the welcome intensified with NCC and school bands performing, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the visiting dignitary. Students were seen waving their hands in a gesture of warm greeting. Upon reaching Narendra Nagar, Dr Ramgoolam and his entourage were treated to a traditional Uttarakhandi welcome at their five-star hotel. Local women, adorned in traditional attire, sang folk songs and applied tilak on his forehead, a gesture of respect and hospitality. Visibly impressed by the states breathtaking landscapes, Prime Minister Ramgoolam lauded Uttarakhands natural charm. The serene beauty of Uttarakhand is truly captivating, he reportedly remarked. We hope this visit will open new doors for cultural exchange and tourism, allowing more Mauritians to experience this incredible region. The Prime Minister and his wife were reportedly mesmerised by the picturesque views of Rishikesh from their hotel. During their four-day stay, which concludes on 15 September, the couple is scheduled to visit other significant spiritual and cultural sites, including Rishikesh and Haridwar. Officials anticipate that this high-profile visit will significantly boost Uttarakhands tourism sector and strengthen cultural ties between Mauritius and India, particularly with the Himalayan state. Elaborate security arrangements were in place throughout the Prime Ministers journey. A zero zone was declared from Jolly Grant Airport to Dhalwala for approximately 30 minutes, leading to temporary traffic halts at key junctions such as Indramani Badoni Chowk. Further stringent measures were implemented in Tehri district, with the entire stretch from Dhalwala to the Narendranagar bypass designated a zero zone. Vehicles arriving from the Chamba side were temporarily stopped at Bhadrakali and the bypass until the VIP convoy had passed, ensuring a smooth and secure passage. Traffic resumed normalcy only after the Prime Ministers convoy had cleared the area.

Uttarakhand's Tehri lake set for global spotlight: ADB infuses Rs 1,050 crore for sustainable tourism

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's picturesque Tehri Lake region is poised for a major transformation into an an international tourism hub, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) committing a substantial loan of $126.42 million (approximately Rs 1,050 crore) for its sustainable tourism development project. A landmark agreement regarding this was formally inked in New Delhi on Thursday between the central government and the ADB to bolster eco-friendly and climate-resilient tourism in the Himalayan state. The Uttarakhand government has long envisioned developing the expansive Tehri Lake area into a world-class destination, leveraging its natural beauty and potential for adventure sports. This significant financial backing from the ADB, formalised through an agreement between the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance and the multilateral lending agency, is crucial to bringing that vision to fruition. The comprehensive tourism development initiative will introduce a range of new activities and significantly upgrade existing infrastructure in Tehri, identified as one of Uttarakhand's most climate-vulnerable and economically disadvantaged regions. The project aims to provide enhanced facilities, superior connectivity, improved sanitation, and robust solid waste management systems for both domestic and international visitors. Officials anticipate the project will directly benefit over 87,000 residents through various employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, while also catering to an estimated 2.7 million tourists annually. The focus will be on creating a vibrant yet responsible tourism ecosystem. The Rs 1,050 crore loan agreement, specifically designed to promote rural development through sustainable and climate-sensitive tourism around Tehri Lake, was signed by Ms. Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Kai Wei Yeo, Officer-in-Charge for ADB in India. Underscoring the project's potential, Joint Secretary Juhi Mukherjee remarked, This loan agreement with the ADB will be instrumental in transforming Uttarakhand's Tehri Lake region into a diverse, all-weather tourism destination, offering unique experiences year-round. She added that the focus is on creating a balanced development model. Echoing her sentiments, ADB's Kai Wei Yeo emphasized the broader impact. The Tehri Lake tourism development project will not only champion sustainable tourism practices but also significantly contribute to local economic growth by creating numerous employment opportunities for the communities, he stated, highlighting the bank's commitment to inclusive development.

Uttarakhand's Nepali heartache: Families divided by unrest await to reach out to loved ones

DEHRADUN: A wave of profound anxiety has swept through the Nepali community residing in Uttarakhand, particularly in Pithoragarh and Dehradun, following the outbreak of violence and civil unrest in Nepal. With communication lines severely hampered, many are struggling to reach their loved ones, leaving them grappling with an agonising silence. Nepali people here are desperately attempting to ascertain the situation back home, but phone calls to family members are often being unanswered. While some migrant Nepalis have managed to connect using expensive Nepali SIM cards, the high cost restricts prolonged conversations. We can only advise them to stay indoors and look after the children and elderly, one resident shared, highlighting the limited support they can offer from afar. We are physically here, maybe, but mentally, we are entirely consumed by the events unfolding in Nepal, expressed a concerned migrant. The unrest, fueled by anti-corruption protests and a ban on social media, has left the community deeply unsettled. The communication blackout has left many completely unaware of what is happening, deepening their fear. Sandeep Bohra, a Nepali resident in Pithoragarh, said, My mother Gaura, father Beer Bahadur, and other family members live in Bajhang. We spoke three days ago, but there has been no contact since then. There's no other way for me to reach them. Vikram Dhami, another local, shared a similar plight: My mother and wife are in Nepal. I came here to earn a living, but now I have no idea about their situation. For Ramesh Ram of Gothilapani, the situation is particularly distressing. I managed to speak to my family using a recharged phone, but it was very expensive. Earlier, social media was a cheap way to communicate, but the ban in Nepal has made things much harder, he lamented. Mahesh Ram, whose family is split between Pithoragarh and Nepal, confirmed, I haven't been able to speak to my brother or other relatives since the violence began. The concern extends beyond Pithoragarh to Dehradun, where the Nepali-origin population is equally distraught. Nepal's youth vs the 'nepo kids': A generation rises against a broken system Jharkhand BJP warns Hemant government of Nepal-like consequences if youngsters in State unite Shriram from Motihari, now residing in Pithoragarh, after watching videos of the protests, noted, The younger generation appears most agitated. It won't be easy to contain their anger. If the movement is forcibly suppressed, the future consequences could be very dangerous. In Dehradun, Surya Vikram Shahi worries for his family in Nepal. I've only managed to speak to one brother since the violent protests started; other family members' phones are unreachable, he said, highlighting that his anxiety is mounting daily. Urmila Tamang, whose two daughters-in-law are of Nepali origin, shared their distress. They married and came to Dehradun years ago, but this violence has left them in tears, consumed by worry for their families. Sona Shahi of Chandrabani, whose maternal home is in Nepal, has been filled with apprehension since the news of the unrest broke. Notably, the current events have also brought back memories of past turmoil. Pranjal Karki of Baitadi recalled, In 1996, there was an anti-monarchy movement in Nepal. Then, in 2008, the Maoists won, and the monarchy ended. Something or the other has been happening continuously since then. This historical context only adds to the community's deep-seated fears for the future. 'Peace will soon return to trouble-torn Nepal,' says Union Minister Piyush Goyal

PM Modi promises Rs 1200 crore aid for Uttarakhand amidst monsoon fury; Opposition calls it 'insufficient'

DEHRADUN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday visited Uttarakhand to take stock of the devastating impact of cloudbursts, torrential rains, and landslides that have ravaged the State this monsoon season. During his visit, the Prime Minister met with affected families, offering his condolences and assuring them of the Centre's full support in rebuilding their lives. In a significant announcement, PM Modi declared a financial package of 1200 crore for the disaster-stricken region. This aid includes an ex-gratia of 2 lakh for the kin of those who lost their lives and 50,000 for the injured. Children orphaned by the floods and landslides will receive comprehensive assistance under the PM CARES for Children scheme. The Central government also pledged its full backing for the reconstruction and restoration of damaged infrastructure in the affected areas. Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived in Dehradun, where he was received by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Governor Lt. General Gurpreet Singh at the airport. However, his pre-scheduled aerial survey of the disaster-hit regions via an MI-17 helicopter had to be cancelled due to inclement weather conditions. IIT study warns of earthquake-induced landslides in four Uttarakhand districts, Rudraprayag most vulnerable Despite the weather disruption, the Prime Minister proceeded with an official meeting in Dehradun to review ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts and to assess the extent of the damage. During this meeting, he reiterated that the immediate financial assistance and advances being provided under the Disaster Management Act and rules are interim measures. Further review will be conducted, and additional assistance will be provided based on the state's memorandum and the report from the central team, PM Modi clarified before returning to Delhi towards the evening. Emphasising a multi-pronged approach to aid the affected regions and people, PM Modi outlined several initiatives. These include the reconstruction of homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), restoration of national highways, rebuilding of schools, assistance from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF), and the distribution of mini-kits for animal husbandry. He specifically mentioned that rural families whose homes were damaged by floods would receive financial aid under a special project within PMAY-Gramin. Uttarakhand suffers Rs 5,000 crore losses from monsoon rains, worst since Kedarnath tragedy Inter-ministerial Central teams have already been dispatched to Uttarakhand to assess the damage, and disposal of further aid will be considered based on their detailed reports. The Prime Minister expressed his profound condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the disaster, assuring them that the Centre would work hand-in-hand with the state government to provide every possible help during this difficult time. He also commended the swift relief operations carried out by the NDRF, SDRF, Army, state administration, and other service organisations. However, the announced financial package drew criticism from the opposition. Speaking to TNIE , Congress State President Karan Mahara stated, The 1200 crore assistance announced by the Prime Minister is insufficient compared to the losses incurred during this monsoon season's disasters in the State. The Centre should release at least 10,000 crore as aid to the State. Uttarakhand has witnessed immense devastation from cloudbursts and landslides in areas like Uttarkashi and other regions, resulting in numerous fatalities and rendering hundreds homeless. The state government estimates the total loss from natural disasters to be over 5700 crore. According to official figures, from the beginning of April to August 31 this year, 79 people have died, 115 have been injured, and 90 are reported missing due to natural disasters.

PM Modi announces Rs 1,200 crore aid for flood-hit Uttarakhand, meets victims in Dehradun

PM Modi Reviews Situation In Flood-Hit Uttarakhand, Announces Rs 1200 Cr Aid

PM Modi visited Dehradun, reviewed Uttarakhand flood damage, announced Rs 1200 crore aid, ex-gratia for victims, and support for orphaned children under PM CARES.

Anxiety grows among Nepali citizens in Uttarakhands Pithoragarh as families remain cut off

DEHRADUN: Nepali citizens residing in Uttarakhands Pithoragarh district are increasingly anxious following the outbreak of violence in Nepal. Many are trying to get updates on the situation through phone calls, but are struggling to connect with their families. Some expatriates managed to reach relatives using Nepali SIM cards, but the high cost of calls has limited their conversations. They are advising their families not to leave home and to ensure the safety of children and elders. Several Nepali expatriates said that while they are physically in India, their minds are entirely occupied with the unfolding events in Nepal. The unrest has left them worried and distressed. Those living in Pithoragarh and nearby areas are especially concerned about the protests in Nepal against social media restrictions and corruption. With communication services disrupted, they are unable to contact family members or get reliable updates on the situation. Sandeep Bohra, a Nepali resident, said, My mother Gaura, father Bir Bahadur, and other family members live in Bajaang. We last spoke three days ago, and there has been no contact since. I have no other way to reach them. Resident Vikram Dhami added, My mother and wife live in Nepal. I came here for work, and I have no information about their condition. Similarly, Ramesh Ram from Gothilapani explained that he spoke to his family using a prepaid phone, but the call was very expensive. Earlier, social media provided an affordable way to communicate, but the ban on social media in Nepal has worsened the situation. Mahesh Ram, another Nepali resident, said that while some of his family is in Pithoragarh, his brother and other relatives are in Nepal, and he has not been able to reach them since the violence began. Some expatriates living with their families in Pithoragarh also expressed deep concern. Shriram from Motihari said he had watched protest videos online, observing that the youth appeared most agitated. He warned, It will not be easy to contain the anger of the youth. If attempts are made to forcibly suppress the movement, the future consequences could be very dangerous. Recalling previous movements in Nepal, expatriates expressed additional apprehension. Pranjal Karki from Baitadi remembered the anti-monarchy movement of 1996. In 2008, the Maoists won in Nepal, and the monarchy was abolished. Since then, something or the other has been continuously happening, he said, pointing to the countrys history of instability.

Cotec Healthcare Files DRHP For IPO To Raise Rs 295 Crore In Fresh Issue

The Dehradun-based company is a leading player in the contract development and manufacturing organisation industry in India.

Nepal jailbirds on the run nabbed, border security cover ramped up

PATNA/LUCKNOW/DEHRADUN/JAIPUR: Amid stepped up vigil along the India-Nepal border, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel have nabbed 19 prisoners who escaped from Nepal jails taking advantage of the unrest and tried to enter Bihar and UP that border the Himalayan country. Ten jail inmates who had escaped from Dillibazar jail in Kathmandu were detained at the border in Bihar and nine in UP. SSB sleuths handed the 10 inmates, including two from Bihar, over to Bittha More and Sursand police stations of Sitamarhi district. In UP, the SSB rounded up four Nepali prisoners at Sonouli border in Maharajganj and five at Khunwa border in Siddharthnagar, officials said, adding the security agencies are grilling the Nepali prisoners. Central agencies have sounded a major security alert along the India-Nepal border, cautioning that miscreants could exploit the unrest to trigger violence in adjoining Indian states. State governments have asked police to ramp up security along the border. We are keeping a close vigil on the border, said Pramod Kumar Mandal, DIG, Purnea. Madhubani SP Yogendra Kumar said the district police and all border police stations have been placed on high alert. People are being allowed to cross the border only after thorough frisking. We are checking the identifications. Our efforts are that no anti-social elements cross the border, he said. Amid Nepal protests, security heightened in seven border districts in Uttar Pradesh Following the state governments directives, UP DGP Rajiv Krishna ordered a round-the-clock surveillance, intensified patrolling, and deployment of additional police personnel in Shravasti, Balrampur, Bahraich, Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, Siddharthnagar and Maharajganj, the seven districts which share around 600-km long border with Nepal. A special control room has also been set up at the Police Headquarters in Lucknow to assist Indian nationals stranded in Nepal. ADG (law & order) Amitabh Yash said, The administration is providing all possible assistance to Indian citizens stranded in Nepal. Security forces have heightened vigilance along the entire border stretch, from Pithoragarhs Dharchula in Uttarakhand to the districts bordering Nepal in Bihar. The SSB has placed all border police stations on high alert, with officers continuously monitoring the situation to prevent any infiltration or disturbances. In Dharchula, movement across the bridge connecting India and Nepal has been stopped, with instructions issued to allow passage only in emergency situations. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami asked officials to keep an eye on the activities of anti-social or mischievous elements in their respective areas by conducting intensive checking. Thousands of Indian tourists remain stranded in Nepal following the violent protests that broke out on September 8. Among them are many families from Rajasthan, including the relatives of independent MLA from Bayana, Ritu Banawat, and former Udaipur councilor Anil Singhal. Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani said the state government is in constant touch with the Indian Embassy. The evacuation process will begin as soon as the situation improves, he said. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma appealed to the stranded people to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy. Airlines to operate spl flights to and from Kathmandu With Kathmandus Tribhuvan International Airport opening for operations on Wednesday by 4 pm (IST), the Ministry of Civil Aviation has asked two leading operatorsAir India and IndiGoto operate additional flights from Wednesday night for the next few days. The fares shall be kept at a reasonable level, the ministry has advised. India-Nepal international border along Uttarakhand sealed following fresh disputes, protests in Nepal

India-Nepal international border along Uttarakhand sealed following fresh disputes, protests in Nepal

DEHRADUN: The India-Nepal international border, particularly along Uttarakhand, has been sealed following fresh disputes and nationwide protests erupting in Nepal. All movement of vehicles and pedestrians across the border was halted on Wednesday morning and will remain suspended until further notice. However, Nepali citizens residing in India or visiting are being permitted to return to their home country. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has been actively appealing to Nepali nationals to facilitate their safe passage back. The border closure has also brought to a standstill the daily movement of essential goods from the Banbasa region. Fuel, soap, pulses, rice, and salt, which are regularly supplied from Banbasa to border towns in Nepal, are no longer reaching Nepali citizens through local shops. Nepal is grappling with escalating violence, arson, and uncontrolled situations. In response, the Nepali Army on Wednesday imposed nationwide restrictive orders from morning until 5 pm, followed by a curfew until 6 am the next day. A statement from the army warned that any form of protest, vandalism, arson, or attacks targeting individuals or property during this period would be considered a criminal activity and be dealt with accordingly. The statement also highlighted the potential for ape and violent attacks, stating, Considering the country's security situation, restrictive orders and curfew have been enforced. In light of the turmoil, Indian security forces have heightened vigilance along the entire border stretch, from Pithoragarh's Dharchula in Uttarakhand to the districts bordering Nepal in Bihar. The SSB has placed all border police stations on high alert, with officers continuously monitoring the situation to prevent any infiltration or disturbances. Amid Nepal protests, security heightened in seven border districts in Uttar Pradesh In Uttarakhand's Dharchula, movement across the bridge connecting India and Nepal has been stopped, with instructions issued to allow passage only in emergency situations. Protests are also being witnessed in Nepal's Darchula district, alongside Kathmandu. Nepali police personnel are conducting continuous patrols. On Tuesday, enraged protesters vandalised the Aamale office in Darchula, leading to a curfew being imposed in the area. Further east, Madhubani SP Yogendra Kumar visited the Bethonha border check post in the Jaynagar police station area. Protesters had staged aggressive demonstrations in Nepal's Siraha district, just three kilometers from Jaynagar. Followingly, SP Yogendra Kumar inspected the border late Tuesday evening and stated that the Madhubani border area has been placed on high alert due to the violent protests in Nepal. Meanwhile, Nepali citizens residing in India are expressing deep anxiety for the safety of their families back home. Bal Bahadur, a Nepali national living in Dehradun's Vijay Colony for the past 10 years, told this reporter, We are most worried about our family members as there has been no news from there. Many Nepalis working in Uttarakhand, especially after reports of violence sparked by a social media ban, are calling home to ascertain the situation and appealing their relatives to stay indoors. As soon as we hear news of violence, our heart race, and we immediately call home, said one resident. India's neighbourhood in turmoil, Delhi must watch situation carefully: Ex-Indian envoys

PM Modi to conduct aerial survey of Uttarakhand's disaster-hit areas on September 11

DEHRADUN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to conduct an aerial survey of Uttarakhand's disaster-stricken mountainous regions on Thursday, assessing the extensive damage caused by this year's relentless monsoon rains and related calamities. According to government sources, PM Modi will arrive in Dehradun after attending an event in Varanasi. He is expected to undertake an aerial survey of the disaster and flood-hit areas around 4:15 pm. Following this, at 5 pm, the Prime Minister will hold a high-level review meeting with state officials at Jolly Grant Airport to discuss the relief and rehabilitation efforts. On Wednesday afternoon, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Jolly Grant Airport to personally oversee preparations for the Prime Minister's visit, instructing officials to ensure all arrangements are made in a timely and meticulous manner. CM Dhami highlighted the Prime Minister's deep connection with the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a special affection for Uttarakhand. This is why, during this difficult time of disaster, the state has continuously received his unwavering support and guidance. His arrival will further strengthen disaster relief efforts in Uttarakhand, Dhami stated. This year, Uttarakhand has suffered extensive damage due to excessive rainfall and widespread flooding. There is a strong expectation that the central government will provide a substantial economic package to the state for disaster relief, rescue, reconstruction, and rehabilitation, akin to the assistance offered to Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Sources from the State Disaster Management Office indicate a grim toll: since April, 85 people have lost their lives in various natural disasters across Uttarakhand, while 94 are still reported missing. Additionally, 128 individuals have sustained serious injuries in different incidents. The Disaster Management Department's data reveals assets worth approximately Rs 1944 crore have been destroyed, including vital roads, schools, power lines, substations, and irrigation canals. Uttarakhand suffers Rs 5,000 crore losses from monsoon rains, worst since Kedarnath tragedy Furthermore, an estimated Rs 3,700 crore is required to secure properties currently at high risk from further damage. Earlier, an Inter-Ministerial Central Team from the Government of India, which had been assessing the damage in the state, met with Chief Minister Dhami. The Chief Minister emphasised, Uttarakhand is an extremely disaster-sensitive state. During the monsoon season, it grapples with severe problems of landslides, floods, and waterlogging due to excessive rainfall. He urged national-level institutions to collaborate on further developing advanced forecasting systems to minimise damage from landslides. CM Dhami further stressed that his year's heavy rainfall has caused extensive damage in various regions, resulting in both loss of life and significant harm to assets. He highlighted that cloudbursts and landslides in the hilly areas cause permanent land damage, rendering such areas unusable for farming or construction, and called for an effective long-term action plan to address this. The Central Team, led by Joint Secretary R. Prasanna of the Ministry of Home Affairs, had surveyed damage in districts like Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Nainital. After meeting the Chief Minister, the team commended the state government's relief operations, including the adequate arrangements for lodging and food in relief camps, the provision of on-site medical facilities, and other basic amenities for the affected, based on feedback received from the victims. Uttarakhand grapples with double crisis: Floods kill 80, 90 missing; State fights epidemic threat