New Delhi: Massive rains hammered several parts of north India causing landslides and flood-like situation at several places. More than 20 people are reported to have been killed due to rains, reports Dynamite News correspondent.
Torrential rain continued to hit most parts of Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Uttarkhand for the third day in a row, throwing normal life out of gear.
Across the northern region in cities and towns, several roads, commercial and residential areas were submerged in knee-deep water with the civic system unable to control the tragic situation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reviewed the situation after talking to senior ministers and officials.
"Teams of local administration, NDRF and SDRF are working to ensure the well-being of the affected people," the PMO said.
In the meantime, Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge has sought relief from the PM-CARES Fund for rain-affected states.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal held a meeting to discuss the water-logging caused by unprecedented rains in the city and the rising water level of the Yamuna.
Himachal Pradesh is one of the most affected states due to hefty rains that triggered landslides leaving hundreds stranded as several roads — including national highways — have been damaged. Due to incessant rains, Sutlej, Ravi, and Beas are overflowing causing havoc in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana.
Rail operations on the Shimla-Kalka route have been suspended till Tuesday as landslides have blocked the route at several places, while educational institutions across the state have been closed for Monday and Tuesday.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, in a video released on Monday, has appealed to people to avoid venturing out during heavy rains, especially near rivers and streams, and be vigilant for the next 24 hours.
Congress President Kharge spoke to the Himachal Pradesh CM on phone and called upon the party workers of the affected states to contribute to the relief and rescue work.
“We have instructed all Congress MLAs to help the affected people in their areas in every way. All Congress workers are requested to contribute their bit in the aid," Kharge said.
