A catastrophic storm with torrential rain struck multiple districts of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, killing at least 31 people, including children. Fatehpur, Bhadohi, Budaun, Prayagraj and Sonbhadra were hit hardest, with severe weather damaging homes and infrastructure. Rescue operations are underway as officials assess the full extent of destruction.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed India’s readiness for floods and heat waves, focusing on developing early warning systems for 30 high-risk Himalayan lakes across northern and northeastern states. He directed that flood crisis management teams be activated nationwide and said the National Disaster Management Authority will check compliance with directives on forest fires, heat waves, and floods.
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Delhi government has served eviction notices to residents of nearly 310 houses near the Yamuna floodplain in Old Delhi. The notice, issued under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, cites recurring flood risks and public safety concerns. The action follows earlier government plans to build a flood protection wall along a vulnerable Ring Road stretch to curb Yamuna flooding.
A manager rejected an employee’s work from home request during heavy rain and flooding, citing company policy. When the employee wasn’t available to respond to a client message at night, the manager questioned them again. The employee responded with a sharp loophole: if working from home is “not allowed” during the emergency, then late night responsiveness under normal rules should also be reconsidered.
Heavy rains have battered Bengaluru, with seven deaths reported in a single flooding incident. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah ordered a review of disaster preparedness, while the Lokayukta initiated a suo moto case and warned officials. An engineer has been suspended and notices issued as authorities clear debris, fill potholes and desilt drains to prevent further tragedies across Karnataka.
Heavy Bengaluru rains flooded Church Street and left Bookworm with thousands of water-damaged books, sparking an online backlash and sympathy wave. In response, netizens floated a “Wet Book Fair” concept to save remaining copies and involve the community in cleanup and redistribution. The flood has become a surprising test of how fast local book lovers can mobilize.
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