A portion of the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway near Pursari village in India, spanning around 50 meters, has shown indications of land subsidence, marked by visible cracks on the road. This section, positioned between Chamoli and Nandprayag, is reportedly sinking towards the Alaknanda River. Authorities have responded by issuing warnings to vehicles approaching from the mountainside, urging cautious driving.
In response to the situation, a police team has been stationed at the affected location to alert drivers of the potential risk. Reflective tapes have been employed to demarcate the subsidence-sensitive area, enhancing safety. Traffic Inspector Praveen Alok emphasized the need for careful driving to ensure the well-being of travelers.
Land subsidence near Pursari was exacerbated after the Kedarnath disaster in 2013, prompting a significant road stabilization project that involved constructing concrete blocks along the Alaknanda’s banks. This initiative successfully mitigated subsidence for a time.
However, recent developments have raised concerns, with signs of erosion resurfacing. Engineers from the National Highways Authority of India are currently addressing the issue by filling the emerging cracks with soil and stones.
The situation is compounded by heavy monsoon rains, leading to fresh landslide points and reactivation of previous ones. The General Manager of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), Shailendra Kumar, explained that despite prior efforts to stabilize the road, increased water levels in the Alaknanda could be contributing to renewed subsidence.
As a temporary measure, the affected road section is being repaired by filling the cracks with mud and stones. Ongoing efforts are focused on ensuring the safety and stability of the highway for travelers in the region.