Heavy monsoon rains have triggered a devastating cloudburst in the Sahastradhara region of Dehradun, causing widespread destruction and claiming at least one life. The intense downpour, which began late on Monday night, resulted in a sudden deluge of water and debris, flooding key areas and leaving a trail of damage. A labourer was killed in Mussoorie after being swept away by a swollen river. Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, has visited the affected areas to assess the damage and has issued a red alert for heavy rain across Dehradun. All schools in the district have been closed as a precautionary measure.
The cloudburst hit the area around Sahastradhara, a popular tourist destination known for its scenic waterfalls and caves. The force of the flash flood was so immense that it washed away a significant amount of mud and rocks from the surrounding hills, which then flowed into the main market area. Our correspondent reports that several shops and hotels were inundated with mud and debris, causing considerable financial loss. The overflowing streams also submerged a sacred Shivlingam in a local temple, reflecting the scale of the natural calamity.
In Mussoorie, the incessant rain led to a tragedy when a labourer was swept away by the raging waters of the Koti Nala. Despite immediate rescue efforts by local residents and officials, the individual could not be saved. The incident has cast a sombre mood over the popular hill station, with authorities urging both locals and tourists to exercise extreme caution and stay away from rivers and streams.
The state’s Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Dehradun and several other districts, warning of the possibility of further heavy rainfall and cloudbursts. Following the devastation, Chief Minister Dhami conducted an on-the-ground inspection of the affected areas, meeting with victims and directing officials to provide immediate relief and rehabilitation. The administration has mobilised rescue and relief teams to clear the debris, restore essential services, and ensure the safety of residents. Our correspondent adds that the Chief Minister has assured all possible assistance to the affected families and has directed the district administration to remain on high alert.
The incident highlights the state’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. The ongoing monsoon season has already brought higher-than-average rainfall to the region, leading to landslides and floods in several parts of the state. The authorities are taking a proactive approach to disaster management, but the unpredictable nature of these events poses a constant challenge.
