Dehradun: At least 15 people have lost their lives and 16 remain missing as torrential rains wreaked havoc across Uttarakhand, with Dehradun district bearing the heaviest toll. Thirteen deaths were reported in Dehradun alone, while additional casualties occurred in Nainital and Pithoragarh districts.
The downpour, which struck on the night of 15–16 September, triggered flash floods, landslides, and overflowing rivers that left several parts of the state devastated. In Dehradun, the Tamsa, Tons, Bindal, Rispana, and Song rivers swelled dangerously, flooding residential areas and damaging roads and bridges. Localities such as Sahastradhara, Maldevta, Premnagar, Karligad, and the surroundings of Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple were among the worst affected.
Authorities reported that more than 900 people were stranded or cut off after bridges and culverts were washed away. Damage to infrastructure has been extensive, with the district administration estimating losses of over â‚ą10 crore in Dehradun alone. Agricultural fields, houses, and public utilities have also suffered heavy destruction.
Rescue and relief efforts are being carried out by the State Disaster Response Force, National Disaster Response Force, and local authorities. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited affected areas, including Maldevta and Kesarwala, directing immediate restoration of roads, electricity, and communication lines. An alternate Bailey bridge is being installed on the Dehradun–Mussoorie road to restore connectivity for light vehicles.
The government has announced financial aid for affected families, including compensation for loss of property and allowances for those displaced to rental housing. Schools and Anganwadi centers in several areas have been closed as a precaution.
Meteorological officials have issued further alerts for heavy rainfall and landslides in Uttarakhand. With forecasts predicting more showers in the coming days, authorities remain on high alert as rescue teams continue to search for those missing and assist stranded residents.