Large landslide hits Vishnugad‑Pipalkoti hydropower project, Uttarakhand

A large landslide struck the Vishnugad‑Pipalkoti hydropower project (VPHEP) site on the Alaknanda River in Helang, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, at 09:00 LT on August 2.

The incident was triggered by intense overnight monsoon rainfall, which caused boulders, mud, and debris to rapidly descend from the slope above the construction area, striking work zones and access roads.

According to district authorities, eight workers sustained injuries, while some local sources state 12 or more, however, this is yet to be confirmed.

Four of them were serious, one worker suffered a leg fracture, while another was transferred to a hospital in Srinagar, Pauri district, for spinal assessment.

An estimated 300 labourers were present at or near the site when the slope failed. Immediate rescue and evacuation were carried out by teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and the health department.

Following the event, the Chamoli District Magistrate ordered the suspension of all project activities until competent authorities verify slope stabilization and safety measures.

Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited (THDCL), which operates the 444 MW run‑of‑the‑river project, has been directed to conduct geotechnical inspections and implement additional protective works before resuming operations.

The Vishnugad‑Pipalkoti project has faced repeated natural hazard incidents in recent years. In May 2024, flash floods damaged auxiliary facilities at the site, prompting emergency evacuations.

The location lies in a high‑hazard Himalayan zone where unstable slopes, steep gradients, and high seasonal rainfall combine to increase landslide risk.

Uttarakhand has recorded more than 4 600 landslides since 2015, resulting in over 316 deaths, with Chamoli among the most affected districts.

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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