NANDAKINI RIVER

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Context

Nandakini River's water level rose above the danger mark

Details

• The Nandakini River's water level crossed the danger mark in the Nandanagar area, Chamoli, Uttarakhand, due to incessant rainfall.
• River water entered houses, leading residents to evacuate and find shelter in safer areas.
• Vehicles buried under debris from mountain slides on the Badrinath highway in Mayapur due to heavy downpour. No casualties reported.

Red Alert and Meteorological Warning

• The Indian Meteorological Department issued a red alert for Uttarakhand on August 13 and 14.
• Heavy to very heavy rainfall, reaching extremely heavy levels, forecasted for the mentioned dates.
• IMD's warning emphasized the need for safety precautions.

Current Conditions and Impact

• Several districts of the state experienced heavy rain for several days, resulting in waterlogging, flooding, and disruption of normal life.
• People faced difficulties and challenges due to the ongoing heavy rainfall and its consequences.

About Nandakini River

• The Nandakini River is a prominent watercourse flowing through the state of Uttarakhand in northern India.
• Originating from the Nanda Devi Mountain, this river traverses a picturesque landscape and plays a vital role in the ecology and livelihoods of the region.

Source and Origin

• The Nandakini River originates from the Nanda Devi Mountain, the second-highest peak in India, located in the Garhwal Himalayas.
• Glacial meltwater and springs contribute to the river's initial formation, giving it a pristine and freshwater source.

Course and Route

• The river flows in a generally southeasterly direction, passing through scenic valleys, forests, and quaint villages.
• It crosses important towns and locations like Ghat, Nandprayag, and Chamoli, further enhancing the river's significance for local communities.

Confluence and Tributaries

• The Nandakini River eventually merges with the Alaknanda River at Nandprayag, a confluence that holds cultural and religious importance.
• The river is fed by several tributaries, such as the Gauriganga and Madhyamaheshwar Ganga, which contribute to its flow and overall ecosystem.

Religious and Cultural Significance

• The Nandakini River is associated with various myths and legends, contributing to its revered status in local Hindu culture.
• Pilgrims and tourists often visit the river's banks and nearby locations as part of religious journeys and spiritual activities.

Vulnerability to Natural Events

• The Nandakini River, like other Himalayan rivers, is vulnerable to natural events such as heavy rainfall, glacial melt, and landslides.
• The region's topography and weather patterns can lead to sudden changes in water levels and the potential for flash floods.

Environmental and Ecological Impact

• The river supports a diverse range of plant and animal species, contributing to the region's biodiversity and ecosystem health.
• Its water is essential for irrigation and sustains agricultural practices in the surrounding areas.

Tourism and Recreation

• The scenic beauty and serene landscapes along the Nandakini River attract tourists and adventure enthusiasts.
• Activities such as trekking, camping, and nature exploration are popular along its course, boosting local tourism.

Management and Conservation

• The Nandakini River's ecosystem requires careful management and conservation efforts to ensure its sustainable use.
• Conservation initiatives aim to preserve the river's natural state and minimize human impact while supporting local communities.

Recent Events and Impact

• The river's water level crossing the danger mark in specific areas, as mentioned in previous discussions, highlights the impact of heavy rainfall on the Nandakini River and its surroundings.

https://news.abplive.com/states/up-uk/uttarakhand-s-nandakini-river-swells-after-heavy-rain-water-enters-houses-in-chamoli-abp-live-english-news-1622823