Train operations on the Haridwar-Dehradun railway line were disrupted on Tuesday after a boulder fell onto the tracks near the Bheemgoda Tunnel in the Haridwar-Motichur section. The incident also damaged the overhead electric line, bringing rail traffic to a standstill.
A major mishap, however, was averted due to a “false canopy” — a protective, cage-like iron structure installed at this vulnerable stretch. Designed to shield the tracks from falling debris, the canopy absorbed the impact of the boulder and prevented any injuries or casualties.
Restoration work was promptly initiated, and sectional officers were rushed to the site. Authorities have assured that normal traffic will be restored at the earliest.
Also Read:Uttarkashi Cloudburst: Army launches swift rescue operation after cloudburst in Dharali; Home Minister expresses concern & shares update
Due to the disruption, following trains were short-terminated:
1. Train 12369 – at Haridwar
2. Train 12370 – at Haridwar
3. Train 12055 – at Haridwar
Railway officials confirmed that the false canopy was strategically installed at the known vulnerable location to ensure safety in such situations.
Cloudburst struck Uttarkashi
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, a devastating cloudburst struck the Dharali region near Harsil in Uttarkashi district, triggering flash floods and landslides. The incident occurred around 1:45 pm just 4 kilometers from the Indian Army camp in Harshil.
The Army quickly mobilised 150 personnel for a large-scale rescue operation. At least 15 to 20 civilians were safely evacuated, while those injured were treated at the Army’s medical facility in Harshil.
“The situation is under continuous monitoring, and the Indian Army remains fully committed to providing all possible assistance to the affected civilians,” the Army said in an official statement.
Also Read:Himachal Pradesh: 10 dead, 34 missing as cloudburst and flash floods hit Mandi
NDRF, ITBP join rescue ops
Union Home Minister Amit Shah posted on X: “I spoke with the Uttarakhand Chief Minister regarding the flash flood in Dharali, Uttarkashi. Three nearby ITBP teams have been dispatched, and four NDRF teams are also en route to begin rescue operations.”
Local police confirmed widespread damage in the Dharali market area. “Police, Fire department, SDRF and Army, along with other disaster relief and rescue teams, are engaged in relief and rescue operations at the scene,” said Uttarakhand Police in a public advisory.
CM Dhami: ‘Extremely sad and distressing’
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described the situation as “extremely sad and distressing,” adding that relief operations are underway on a war footing.
“The news of heavy damage caused by a cloudburst in the Dharali (Uttarkashi) region is extremely sad and distressing. SDRF, NDRF, district administration, and other related teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations on a war footing,” Dhami wrote on X. “I am in constant contact with senior officials, and the situation is being closely monitored. I pray to God for everyone’s safety.”
