By Our Staff Reporter
Chamoli, 5 Mar: The main bridge from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers on the Tibet border of Chamoli district collapsed this morning due to a landslide, when a large boulder fell from the hill on it. This has resulted in completely cutting off access from Govindghat to Ghangaria, Bhyundar, Hemkund Sahib, the Valley of Flowers, and surrounding villages. The bridge, built over the Alaknanda River, was a vital link on the Hemkund Trek. An essential route for pilgrims and trekkers, it was the only motor connection to these destinations.
Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed that the bridge collapse was caused by a landslide. He added that the damage is being assessed, and efforts are underway to ensure alternative arrangements before the start of the Hemkund Sahib Yatra.
After the landslide and the resultant bridge collapse, the administration has initiated immediate action. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Tehsil Administration, Health Department, and Public Works Department (PWD) reached the site. Officials were instructed to devise a solution by evening.
The collapse has completely halted movement between Pulna, Ghangaria, Bhyundar, Hemkund Sahib, and the Valley of Flowers. Additionally, dozens of vehicles are stranded on the other side of the Alaknanda River. The bridge was a critical link, and its destruction has cut off Pulna and Lokpal Valley from the block headquarters and beyond.
According to the local residents, when the landslide occurred, visibility was drastically reduced due to dust and debris. Everything turned dark, and within moments, the entire bridge was gone. This motor bridge, constructed in 2015, played a crucial role in facilitating travel to religious and trekking sites like Hemkund Sahib, Valley of Flowers, and Kagbhusandi. With the Sikh shrine of Hemkund Sahib set to open on May 25, the bridge collapse poses a significant challenge.
Senior Manager of the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara Committee, Sardar Seva Singh, expressed urgency of the situation and shared that authorities had been notified about the bridge’s weakening condition. Despite warnings, no new bridge was constructed. He added that the administration needs to act swiftly to rebuild it before the Yatra begins.
DM Tiwari asserted that plans for an immediate solution are being formulated. It is the priority of the government and the district administration to restore connectivity and ensure essential supplies reach affected villages. Once the assessment is complete, further action will be taken.
