Uttarakhand is facing its heaviest economic setback from natural disasters since the 2013 Kedarnath tragedy. This monsoon season, incessant rains, cloudbursts, and landslides across districts including Uttarkashi, Pauri, Chamoli, and Rudraprayag have caused an estimated loss of nearly ₹5,000 crore. Officials fear the figure may rise as district magistrates compile detailed assessment reports.
Every monsoon, the hill state struggles with natural calamities damaging roads, bridges, schools, and private property. Despite reconstruction efforts in Kedarnath making the shrine town grand once again, this year’s widespread damage marks the most severe economic impact in over a decade. Experts point out that if such huge sums were invested in development, Uttarakhand could have built multiple medical colleges, schools, and roads instead of repeatedly compensating for losses.
In Pauri district alone, 2,008 properties were damaged, with losses pegged at ₹77.46 crore. Heavy rains left seven dead and five missing, while 486 roads were destroyed and 156 school buildings damaged. Uttarkashi reported 18 deaths, 13 injuries, and 70 missing. The district lost nearly ₹237 crore, including devastation in Dharali where floods buried hotels, homestays, houses, and livestock under debris.
With the rainy season still ongoing, officials warn that the extent of destruction could increase further, putting additional pressure on the state’s fragile economy.
