Heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides in recent days have caused widespread devastation across Uttarakhand. Entire villages have been washed away, roads and bridges destroyed, and thousands of residents displaced. The disaster has resulted in significant loss of life and damage to property.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Dehradun on September 11 to review the situation. He conducted an aerial survey of the affected regions, met survivors, and chaired a high-level review meeting with officials. Following the assessment, the Prime Minister announced financial assistance of ₹1,200 crore for the state.
Relief and Rehabilitation Measures
During the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for a multi-pronged approach to relief and rehabilitation. Provisions discussed include reconstruction of homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, repair of damaged national highways, and rebuilding of schools. Additional measures involve support through the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund and distribution of livestock support kits to farmers.
The government also announced ex-gratia payments of ₹2 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives and ₹50,000 for those seriously injured. Special attention was drawn to children orphaned in the disaster, with an assurance that their care and education will be covered under the PM CARES for Children scheme.
Housing and Infrastructure Support
Flood-affected families whose homes have been damaged will be provided financial assistance for reconstruction under a special project of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Gramin. Officials said the central government will work with the state administration to restore key infrastructure and extend all necessary assistance.
An inter-ministerial central team has already been dispatched to Uttarakhand. These teams will visit the worst-hit districts, assess damage, and prepare a detailed report. The findings will guide further financial allocations and rehabilitation planning.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the efforts of NDRF, SDRF, the Army, police, and local volunteers, who risked their lives to rescue stranded residents.
Worst-Hit Districts
Districts such as Uttarkashi, Tehri, Rudraprayag, Pauri, and Chamoli have reported the heaviest destruction. Many villages remain cut off due to collapsed roads and bridges. Homes near riverbanks have been swept away, agricultural land is buried under debris, and thousands of people are staying in temporary relief camps. Relief operations continue, but access remains a major challenge in several areas.
The recent disaster has once again highlighted the fragile ecological conditions of Himalayan states and the growing risks linked to climate change. While the Prime Minister’s announcement brings some immediate relief, the long-term challenge lies in rebuilding and preparing for future disasters.
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