Debris falls again in Maldevta, revives disaster memories

DEHRADUN: Continuous rain on Sunday afternoon led to the falling of debris in the Maldevta area, causing anxiety among the locals who still remember the disaster that claimed 12 lives less than a year ago due to a landslide.

Although no major damage or casualties were reported this time, residents in the area remain on edge.

"The monsoon has just begun, and we are already witnessing damage. People have yet to recover from last year's disaster. They are afraid to sleep at night, living in constant panic. Some structures in the area still bear the scars of the previous damage while construction activities continue unchecked on the hills above," said Mohit Garg, a resort manager in the vicinity.

Fortunately, the debris on Sunday did not cause significant harm, and traffic resumed after a brief pause. According to officials from the district administration, all necessary preparedness measures have been taken.

"The river's channelisation work was carried out before the monsoon season to minimise the potential damage in case of rising water levels. We have implemented all the required precautions," said Ramji Sharan Sharma, ADM in-charge of disaster management.

Officials also mentioned that there were no rain-related calamities reported in the city. However, residents along the Bindal river remained apprehensive due to the increasing water levels.

"In previous years, monsoon floods have swept away walls of houses, along with the livestock and poultry of some residents here. Even today, when the river crossed the danger mark, fear gripped the entire area. Flooding is a recurring issue, and sometimes the water even spills over the bridge, causing severe damage. People in Gandhigram have been particularly affected, with entire houses being washed away on occasion," said Nitin Chanchal, a resident of Kanwali Road.