Dehradun, Uttarakhand — A severe cloudburst late Monday has unleashed heavy rains and flash floods in Dehradun, causing widespread damage across Sahastradhara, Maldevta, Tapkeshwar Temple area and other neighborhoods. Officials say rescue and relief operations are underway as 300–400 people have already been evacuated to safer areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Dehradun district after rivers swelled, bridges were washed away, shops flooded, and roads turned into rivers overnight. The Tamsa River surged, inundating the premises of the Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple with water reaching the statue of Lord Hanuman, though the temple’s inner sanctum has reportedly remained dry.
At least five people have been swept away in different parts of the city, including Tapkeshwar and the DIT College area. Three persons are trapped under debris in Sahastradhara. Essential infrastructure has been heavily damaged: a bridge in Maldevta-Raipur area collapsed, vehicle traffic is disrupted, and markets near Sahastradhara are under water and strewn with debris.
Schools from grades 1 to 12, along with Anganwadi centres, have been temporarily shut to avoid risks, and authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, avoid river banks, and exercise caution during outdoor movement.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made site visits to Maldevta and Kesarwala, among the worst affected zones, directing relief agencies to intensify rescue work and supply relief materials. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police, and local administration have mobilised teams. More than 500 people are being moved out of vulnerable areas to safer shelters.
Local residents of Sahastradhara recounted scenes of water cutting through streets, flooding shop floors and causing damage to commercial buildings. At the Tapkeshwar premises, temple staff say the water entered early in the morning, reaching up to the temple’s outer courtyard.
The disaster comes amid an alert from authorities that heavy to very heavy rain is expected to continue for several hours. Forecasts include potential extremely intense rainfall, carrying risk of further landslides and flooding.
Chief Minister Dhami assured full government support for those affected. Prime Minister and Home Minister have also been briefed and have pledged assistance. Damage assessments are being carried out, and relief material is being dispatched to affected zones.
With more rains likely, the focus remains on rescue efforts, ensuring the safety of those stranded, and restoring connectivity. As conditions remain volatile, officials have stressed the importance of preparedness and caution across flood-prone areas of Dehradun.
