Hyderabad: Monsoon floods have exposed the vulnerability of northern India’s infrastructure. Himachal Pradesh alone reported 366 deaths and property damage worth ₹4 lakh crore since July 24.
Rainfall far above the norm struck Shimla with 116 percent excess and Kullu with 113 percent, both double seasonal averages. Landslides worsened the human and economic toll.
Monsoon floods highlight wider risks for region
Punjab remains fully affected, with 23 districts still battling floodwaters. While forecasts indicate no rain in the coming days, fears persist over the fragile Sarsari dam in Ludhiana.
In Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district, a cloudburst at Naugaon inundated markets and homes, sweeping away vehicles and debris.
Mathura in Uttar Pradesh saw the Yamuna river overflow, reaching a kilometer into the city. Ashrams reported up to five feet of water, submerging the Vrindavan Parikrama Marg.
The continuing crisis will shape relief and preparedness policy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit the worst-hit regions on September 9.
