Poor upkeep of Pindari trail under scanner after trekker goes missing

Bageshwar: The disappearance of Noida-based software engineer Abhishek Chauhan, 36, on the Pindari glacier trek has renewed concerns over the condition and maintenance of one of Uttarakhand’s most popular trekking routes.

Chauhan went missing on the stretch between Khati and Dwali, which trekkers and residents described as particularly vulnerable to landslides and erosion. They said several portions of the trail were covered with landslide debris, while repeated slope failures had narrowed the pathway at many locations.

Trekker Jitendra Danu said concerns over damaged stretches and accumulated debris were raised at the start of the trekking season, but little improvement was seen on the ground. “The condition of the route continues to deteriorate as timely repairs and debris clearance remain a challenge,” he said.

Arnab Ghosh, a tourist from Kolkata who recently completed the trek, said landslide debris had reduced the width of the trail at several locations. “Some stretches have become extremely narrow, making movement difficult, especially during bad weather,” he said.

Locals attributed the deteriorating conditions to a decline in field-level maintenance staff. Kailash Danu, a resident of the area, said PWD men were once stationed along the route and played a key role in maintaining trails and assisting trekkers. “Earlier, maintenance workers were present at regular intervals. The paths remained clear and visitors could seek guidance whenever needed. That system has almost disappeared,” he said.

Residents added that the number of PWD men responsible for trail upkeep had declined sharply over the years, affecting regular maintenance and visitor assistance.

PWD (Kapkot) executive engineer Amit Patel said the department carried out repair and cleaning work before the trekking season every year, but rainfall, melting snow and recurring landslides often damaged sections of the route soon after. “The route is cleared before it is opened to visitors, but weather conditions and recurring landslides quickly affect several stretches again. Limited funds also constrain extensive maintenance work,” Patel said.

Apart from concerns over the trekking route, residents highlighted the growing threat to the KMVN and PWD rest houses at Dwali. They said the Pindar river changed its course after the 2013 disaster and had gradually eroded the hillside beneath the structures.

Villagers said no major protective measures had been taken despite repeated demands and feared continued erosion could eventually endanger the buildings, which serve as an important halt point for trekkers and rescue teams.

Dwali remains one of the most important camps on the Pindari route, providing accommodation and emergency support facilities. Locals said any damage to the structures would affect trekking operations and emergency response efforts in the region.

As search teams continued efforts to trace Chauhan, residents said the incident underscored the need for sustained investment, stronger maintenance mechanisms and long-term protective measures along the route.