Heavy rainfall and cloudburst in Dehradun late Monday night created havoc across the city and nearby areas. The cloudburst occurred in the Sahastradhara region, triggering a major landslide and flooding that cut off several roads. Authorities immediately declared a holiday in all schools across Dehradun on Tuesday, prioritizing the safety of students.
According to officials, at least two people are missing after the incident. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rushed to the affected site. They launched intensive search and rescue operations, focusing on locating the missing and evacuating those stranded.
Residents in low-lying areas reported severe flooding inside homes. Vehicles were damaged, and many families shifted to safer locations overnight. The landslide left debris across key connecting roads, disrupting traffic and delaying relief supplies. Local authorities have appealed to citizens to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and remain alert to weather warnings.
Meteorological experts have predicted more heavy rainfall in the coming days. With the monsoon active in Uttarakhand, officials are monitoring river levels and vulnerable slopes around Dehradun. The district administration has also set up helplines to assist affected families.
The Sahastradhara region, a popular tourist spot known for its natural springs, has witnessed similar incidents in the past. Frequent cloudbursts and landslides highlight the fragile ecology of the Himalayan foothills. Environmentalists have stressed the need for long-term solutions, including stricter land-use regulations and improved drainage systems.
The Uttarakhand government remains on high alert, coordinating with disaster teams to ensure timely evacuation and medical assistance. For now, life in Dehradun stands disrupted, with schools closed and residents bracing for more rain.
