Cloudburst isolates Mussoorie, residents and visitors depend on local shelters amid road collapse

Torrential rainfall overnight triggered floods and landslides that left Mussoorie cut off from Dehradun, stranded patients, and displaced tourists. Local residents, officials, and aid groups are scrambling to manage the escalating situation as critical infrastructure crumbles.

The couple, and several others, were stuck near Galogi after multiple route closures. Mukesh is one of the patients awaiting evacuation at the Indian Territorial Border Police (ITBP) helipad.

Several residents reported that patients needing critical treatments, including regular dialysis, were unable to reach Dehradun as flood-damaged roads remained impassable.

Tourism authorities say 511 tourists have registered themselves as stranded, but local sources estimate the actual number might run into the thousands. Hotels and shelters in Mussoorie have opened their doors offering free meals and accommodation to affected visitors.

The damage across the region is significant: 13 bridges damaged (Rs 1.5 crore), 21 roads damaged (Rs 1.2 crore), and embankments worth approximately Rs 1.7 crore destroyed., as reported by The Indian Express.

Buildings affected include residential homes, community centres, panchayat buildings, Anganwadi centres, shops, eight hotels, and three restaurants were also impacted. The Sahastradhara-Karligad motor road has suffered damage at more than nine points due to landslides.

At Sahastradhara, residents report a cloudburst overnight that swept away trees, rocks, water and infrastructure. Several people are missing in that area with reports of 13 dead being identified and at least 16 still missing after the event.

On the warning signs front, Uttarakhand is known to be prone to landslides — about 15% of the Mussoorie region is classified as highly susceptible, and another 29% as moderately susceptible, according to mapping by the Geological Survey and the Department of Science & Technology. Specific zones like Bhataghat, George Everest, Kempty Falls, Khattapani, Library Road, Galogidhar, and Hathipaon are especially vulnerable.

Authorities are focused on rescue operations. Patients with critical needs are being airlifted. Roads are being cleared where possible.

Local officials are coordinating with state disaster management teams, police, and hotel operators to provide relief and shelter. Residents are being urged to avoid travel through unstable routes.