New Delhi, Aug. 28 -- New Delhi The Uttarakhand forest department has approved forest diversion for an 8.70-kilometre stretch in the ecologically sensitive Bhagirathi zone, despite warnings from environmental experts about increased disaster vulnerability in the region. Official communication dated July 21, seen by HT, shows the state has granted approval to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for constructing the 17.50-hectare stretch from Hina to Tekhla in Uttarkashi as part of the Char Dham route. "It is a strategic route and hence the state government has given its nod to the stretch," said Ranjan Mishra, principal chief conservator of forests, Uttarakhand. The approval comes barely three weeks after the devastating Dharali flash floods...