In Pics | Evacuation continues in Joshimath as more houses develop cracks

Evacuation operation continues in Joshimath, a popular destination with pilgrims and tourists, after hundreds of buildings developed cracks due to shifting soil. A town of around 17,000 people in Uttarakhand, Joshimath, is sinking gradually with huge cracks developing in its houses, roads and fields. Here are some photos of the calamity:

In Pics | Evacuation continues in Joshimath as more houses develop cracks

Joshimath, the gateway to famous pilgrimage sites like Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib and the international skiing destination Auli, seems on the brink of a disaster. Credit: PTI Photo

Known as the place where Adi Guru Shankaracharya subjected himself to penance centuries ago, Joshimath is sinking gradually with huge cracks developing in its houses, roads and fields. Many houses have suffered subsidence, locals said. Credit: PTI Photo

Locals in Joshimath are being continuously moved to safer locations as the number of houses developing cracks in the sinking town rose to 603 from 500. Credit: PTI Photo

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered immediate evacuation of families living in houses at risk. Credit: PTI Photo

After visiting the affected areas in the Himalayan town on January 7, Dhami said suitable places for relocation of residents near Pipalkoti and Gauchar are also being identified. Credit: PTI Photo

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami inspects the landslide affected area of Joshimath in Chamoli district. Credit: PTI Photo

For years, experts have warned that large-scale construction work, including hydro power projects, in and around Joshimath could lead to land subsidence - the sinking or settling of the ground surface. Credit: PTI Photo