Anthropogenically induced mass movements along the Dharasu-YamunotriTI Anthropogenically induced mass movements along the Dharasu-Yamunotri route

摘要

Anthropogenic interference and consequent obliteration of landscape is presently the main triggering factor for large-scale landslides along the Dharasu–Yamunotri pilgrimage route in Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand. This route is a part of the 160 km long Rishikesh–Yamunotri national highway (NH 94). To broaden the route, slope-cutting and blasting activities are being undertaken. This has resulted in a linear, active mass wasting zone (10–30 m wide) juxtaposing part of the highway (on the hillside) between the Dharasu bend and Pheri (Figure 1 a). Here, boulders of phyllite and quartzite hang over the road, with their joint openings having widened due to repeated blasting.