Chamoli

Earth's cryosphere, its frozen water, plays a vital role in regulating global climate by reflecting sunlight and controlling sea levels. Melting ice due to climate change, particularly in the Himalayas, triggers natural disasters and threatens water supplies for millions, impacting ecosystems and human livelihoods.

The Badrinath temple in Uttarakhand's Garhwal Himalayas reopened its doors to devotees on Thursday morning after a six-month winter closure. Gates opened at 6:15 am with Vedic rituals, drawing pilgrims from India and abroad. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and BJP state president Mahendra Bhatt attended the ceremony.

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Uttarakhand government school teachers are requesting alternative arrangements for census and BLO duties, citing severe disruption to classroom instruction. Their year-long deployment risks prolonged teaching gaps, especially in single-teacher schools, impacting learning recovery efforts. Teachers urge the department to implement interim measures to ensure continuous student supervision and instruction.

Singer Masoom Sharma's performance at a Dehradun college event sparked controversy after he allegedly used abusive language. Despite Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's presence, an independent MLA attempted to intervene. A lawyer filed a complaint, and the singer later posted a video apology, citing personal distress and threats from a gangster.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Uttarakhand on April 14 will see the inauguration of the Dehradun-Delhi Expressway. He will first offer prayers at the Dat Kali Temple. The 210-km expressway promises enhanced connectivity. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted preparations for the upcoming Char Dham Yatra and praised the Women's Reservation Bill.

Uttarakhand braces for a week of changing weather. The Indian Meteorological Department forecasts widespread rain and thunderstorms initially, with heavy snowfall expected in higher altitudes. This active weather will gradually subside, transitioning to dry conditions by mid-week. Residents should be aware of potential risks from thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, particularly on April 8-9.

Uttarakhand's higher reaches, including Char Dham districts, experienced unusual April snowfall and heavy rain, impacting travel and slowing preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage. Despite wintry conditions returning to the hills, authorities are working to clear snow and complete essential arrangements, aiming to ensure the Char Dham yatra proceeds as scheduled from April 19.

The Chardham Yatra, a significant pilgrimage in India's Himalayas, will open its doors to devotees in April 2026. The sacred shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamnotri will welcome pilgrims seeking spiritual growth and divine blessings until their closing dates in November 2026. This journey offers a profound connection with the divine amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Despite warmer weather in North India, Uttarakhand's high Himalayas are experiencing intense winter conditions with heavy snowfall in Chamoli district, blanketing Badrinath and surrounding peaks. This severe cold has returned to the region, impacting Badrinath and lower areas. Preparations are underway for the Kedarnath temple's reopening on April 22, 2026, following a recent heavy snowfall event there.

A 2021 Himalayan ice-rock avalanche killed over 200, while a similar 2025 Swiss event claimed one life due to superior preparedness. Scientists highlight Switzerland's integrated risk management, including monitoring and early warnings, as crucial for preventing tragedies, offering lessons for the vulnerable Himalaya region.

Kashmir's spring season officially began with the opening of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden. Asia's largest tulip garden, boasting nearly 18 lakh tulips and other bulbous flowers, has transformed Srinagar into a vibrant spectacle. This annual festival marks the start of the tourism season, drawing visitors eager to witness the stunning floral display against the Himalayan backdrop.