Heavy rain triggered a violent cloudburst in Dehradun on Monday night, causing widespread flooding that submerged houses in Tapovan, inundated the IT Park area, and severely damaged shops and roads. The sudden downpour led to the Karligaad rivulet and Tamsa River overflowing, resulting in flash floods and waterlogging across multiple parts of the city. A key bridge near the Dehradun-Haridwar National Highway collapsed, isolating some areas and complicating rescue efforts. As of now, two people remain missing, with extensive search-and-rescue operations underway involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local authorities.

The historic Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple was also heavily affected, with floodwaters rising rapidly early Tuesday morning and submerging much of the temple premises. Although the sanctum sanctorum remained safe, debris accumulated significantly around the Shivalinga complex, marking one of the worst flooding incidents in recent memory at this site. Local officials and religious leaders have cautioned residents to avoid riverbanks and low-lying areas due to ongoing risks.

The intense rainfall forced authorities to close all schools for the day as a precaution, and multiple residents were evacuated from vulnerable locations to safer grounds. Emergency teams are using bulldozers and divers to clear debris, repair damaged infrastructure, and assist trapped individuals. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is personally monitoring the situation and coordinating with the district administration to ensure swift relief and support for those affected.

This incident highlights the challenges faced by hill cities like Dehradun during the monsoon, where cloudbursts can cause sudden and severe flooding, endangering lives and property. Similar events in the region have previously led to significant casualties and damage, underscoring the importance of improved disaster preparedness and real-time weather monitoring to mitigate impacts. The heavy rains and cloudburst have left a trail of destruction in Dehradun, with significant damage to residential areas, commercial hubs, and cultural landmarks. Swift rescue efforts continue amid warnings of further rainfall, urging residents to remain vigilant and heed safety advisories.