Dehradun, 6 September: Monsoon fury has left a devastating mark on North India, with over 700 people dead in the last three months across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that heavy rainfall, far above seasonal averages, has triggered widespread landslides, flash floods, and road blockages.
Authorities said Himachal Pradesh alone has accounted for nearly 300 deaths, while Uttarakhand reported over 200 fatalities. Thousands of homes have been damaged, 1,000 roads remain blocked, and power supply has been disrupted in several districts. Rescue teams from the NDRF and Army have been deployed, but operations are hampered by continuous rains.
Chief ministers of affected states have appealed for urgent central aid. The Centre has released interim relief funds, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and assured “all possible assistance.”
Experts warn that poor urban planning, deforestation, and construction in fragile hill zones have amplified the disaster. With more rainfall forecast, officials urged residents in vulnerable zones to evacuate immediately.
