Dehradun: A cloudburst in Uttarakhand’s capital city triggered severe flooding in the Sahastradhara area, causing the Tamsa river to swell and submerge the historic Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple. Heavy rainfall late Monday night into Tuesday morning inundated large parts of Dehradun, damaging infrastructure, commercial establishments, and forcing schools to close.

According to officials, the Tapkeshwar temple premises were flooded with water levels rising up to 10 to 12 feet in some areas, reaching the statue of Lord Hanuman. While the sanctum sanctorum remains safe, the rest of the temple complex was heavily affected.

Visuals from the site showed gushing waters sweeping across the temple floor, alarming devotees and residents.

The cloudburst also damaged several shops, hotels, and commercial establishments in the popular Sahastradhara tourist belt. Roads have been washed away in parts, and a bridge near Fun Valley and Uttarakhand Dental College on the Dehradun–Haridwar National Highway sustained significant damage, disrupting connectivity.

Authorities confirmed that at least two people are missing following the incident. Rescue and relief operations have been launched by the district administration, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and police. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has reviewed the situation, directing all agencies to remain on high alert and ensure swift assistance to those affected.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Dehradun and Tehri Garhwal, warning of continued heavy rainfall and gusty winds reaching up to 80 km per hour. Officials have urged residents to avoid riverbanks, stay indoors, and follow safety advisories.

The full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed, though initial reports suggest widespread losses to infrastructure and businesses in the region. Relief measures, including temporary shelters and emergency support, are being mobilized as authorities monitor the situation closely.