Raging rivers cause destruction in parts of northern India

Flash floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains have caused widespread devastation in northern India, resulting in at least 30 fatalities and stranding thousands of people. The disaster began on Tuesday, with rivers swelling and overflowing their banks, sweeping away roads, bridges, and homes in several districts. In Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba area, a significant number of pilgrims are trapped, and rescue teams are facing challenges due to damaged access routes and ongoing rainfall. The destruction has submerged residential areas, leading to massive displacement and property loss. Emergency services, including the National Disaster Response Force, are conducting operations to evacuate stranded individuals and provide essential supplies. This event is part of a pattern of monsoon-related floods that frequently affect the region, underscoring vulnerabilities in infrastructure and disaster management. Authorities are urging caution and have set up relief camps, while meteorological departments warn of continued heavy rains. The full impact is still being evaluated, with concerns that the death toll may rise as more areas are accessed.