Monsoon Fury: Northern India Paralyzed by Torrential Rains and Floods; Schools Shut in Punjab, Himachal, and J&K

NEW DELHI, India – Northern India has been left paralyzed as torrential monsoon rains triggered severe flooding, landslides, and widespread disruption across Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. Authorities in all three states have ordered the closure of schools and colleges, while disaster response teams have been deployed to assist affected residents.

Over the past 48 hours, heavy rainfall has led to swollen rivers, waterlogged streets, and damaged infrastructure, bringing daily life to a halt. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts, warning of more heavy rainfall in the coming days.

The Impact Across States

• Punjab: Roads and farmlands remain submerged under water. Schools and colleges have been shut, and farmers have reported significant crop damage due to waterlogging. Urban centers like Amritsar and Ludhiana saw severe traffic disruptions.

• Himachal Pradesh: Landslides triggered by incessant rains blocked major highways and isolated several towns. Tourist hotspots including Shimla and Manali have been cut off, with the state government urging visitors to avoid travel to hilly areas.

• Jammu & Kashmir: The Jhelum River is flowing above danger levels, prompting flood alerts. Many families from low-lying areas have been evacuated to relief camps. Officials are closely monitoring vulnerable regions to prevent casualties.

Government Response and Warnings

State disaster management authorities have mobilized the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams for rescue and relief. Boats and medical teams have been deployed in heavily affected areas.

The IMD has predicted continued heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours, warning residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Local administrations have opened emergency helplines and set up temporary shelters.

Political and Social Fallout

The floods are likely to raise fresh debates over urban planning, infrastructure resilience, and climate adaptation in Northern India. Opposition leaders have criticized state governments for failing to prepare adequately for annual monsoon challenges.

Meanwhile, environmental experts argue that unchecked construction, deforestation, and poor drainage systems have worsened the crisis. Citizens, especially in rural and low-lying regions, fear prolonged hardship if rains continue at this intensity.

As Northern India battles one of the heaviest monsoon spells in recent years, the focus remains on saving lives, ensuring timely relief, and rebuilding affected communities once the waters recede.