Heavy overnight rainfall in Dehradun triggered flooding in the revered Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple as the Tamsa River swelled beyond its banks. Water entered the temple courtyard and reached up to the statue of Hanuman, though the sanctum sanctorum was not affected.
Temple priest Acharya Bipin Joshi said the river began swelling around 5 a.m., quickly submerging the entire premises. “Such a situation has not occurred in a very long time. Several places have been damaged, and we urge people to stay away from rivers during this time. Thankfully, the sanctum is safe, and no casualties have been reported,” he told ANI.
Local residents recounted how water surged into the cave temple, with levels rising nearly 10–12 feet. “Around 4:45 a.m., water entered the cave. Soon, it went above the Shivling. We somehow managed to escape using ropes,” said one resident.
Others reported heavy damage caused by strong currents that carried logs and debris into the temple complex. Locals have urged devotees and residents to avoid riverbanks until conditions stabilize.
