The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) has released a stark report detailing massive economic losses from disasters in 2025. According to the findings, the state faced a total economic impact of Rs 15,103.52 crore. This figure includes direct damage, losses, and funds needed for recovery efforts.
Breakdown of the Economic Impact
The report breaks down the losses into clear categories. Direct damage accounted for Rs 3,792.38 crore. Additional losses reached Rs 312.19 crore. A significant sum of Rs 10,998.95 crore is required for rehabilitation, reconstruction, and recovery. This comprehensive assessment marks the first statewide Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) conducted in India.
Disasters That Struck Uttarakhand
In 2025, Uttarakhand experienced several devastating events. An avalanche claimed eight lives. Severe floods near Gangotri and in Dehradun resulted in over 100 deaths. Two helicopter crashes occurred during the Char Dham yatra due to poor weather conditions. These incidents collectively triggered the economic toll.
Sector-Wise Analysis of Losses
The social sector suffered the most, with a total impact of Rs 4,966.85 crore. Housing, education, and health bore the brunt. Specifically, the health sector recorded losses of Rs 2,579.47 crore. The housing sector faced an impact of Rs 2,005.48 crore.
Infrastructure losses totaled Rs 6,225.69 crore. Water supply systems were the worst hit, incurring losses of Rs 4,048.88 crore. Roads experienced damage worth Rs 1,963.29 crore. The power sector saw a loss of Rs 213.52 crore.
Productive sectors, including agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, tourism, and forestry, combined for a loss of Rs 893.94 crore. Tourism alone accounted for Rs 744.94 crore, making it the most affected area.
Future Disaster Risk Reduction Plans
The USDMA identified a requirement of Rs 3,017.04 crore for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). This funding aims to reconstruct and strengthen systems to mitigate future disasters. Officials emphasize the need for resilient infrastructure.
Official Statements and Roadmap
Disaster Management and Rehabilitation secretary Vinod Kumar Suman commented on the report. He noted that the PDNA considers Uttarakhand's geographical vulnerability, mountainous terrain, and climate change impacts. The objective extends beyond assessing losses. It presents a planned roadmap for building a more resilient and safe Uttarakhand.
Suman stated that based on this report, the state will receive financial assistance from the central government. This support will enable swift restoration in affected areas. It will also protect livelihoods and strengthen infrastructure following the 'Build Back Better' principle.
The report underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address disaster impacts. It highlights the critical role of government support in recovery and future preparedness.
