At least eight people were killed and 14 others were injured when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-3-people-killed-in-landslides-in-abbottabad-240646">heavy rains lashed a large part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province </a>on Saturday night.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority on Sunday confirmed six deaths and 14 injuries in rain-related incidents in various districts of the province, Dawn News reported.

The rains, which hit the province on Friday evening, caused flash floods, road blockades and causalities in several areas, including Bajaur, Lower Dir, Shangla, Chitral, Shangla, Buner and Mardan districts.

The Karakoram Highway, which was blocked at many places due to heavy landslides on Friday night in Dasu area of Upper Kohistan, was reopened to traffic after many hours.

However, the passengers travelling between Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained stranded for many hours.

The Pakistan Metrological Department recorded 131mm rain in Malam Jabba, 50mm in Balakot, 48mm in Besham, 31mm in Bannu, 30mm in Saidu Sharif, 27mm in Kakul, 21mm in Dir Upper, 12mm in Parachinar and 12mm in Dera Ismail Khan.

Meanwhile, at least six people were electrocuted in Karachi as heavy rains lashed parts of the metropolis and Sindh on Sunday.

At least eight people were killed and 14 others were injured when heavy rains lashed a large part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday night. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority on Sunday confirmed six deaths and 14 injuries in rain-related incidents in various districts of the province, Dawn News reported.

At least eight people were killed and 14 others were injured when heavy rains lashed a large part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday night. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority on Sunday confirmed six deaths and 14 injuries in rain-related incidents in various districts of the province, Dawn News reported. The rains, which hit the province on Friday evening, caused flash floods, road blockades and causalities in several areas, including Bajaur, Lower Dir, Shangla, Chitral, Shangla, Buner and Mardan districts. The Karakoram Highway, which was blocked at many places due to heavy landslides on Friday night in Dasu area of Upper Kohistan, was reopened to traffic after many hours. However, the passengers travelling between Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained stranded for many hours. The Pakistan Metrological Department recorded 131mm rain in Malam Jabba, 50mm in Balakot, 48mm in Besham, 31mm in Bannu, 30mm in Saidu Sharif, 27mm in Kakul, 21mm in Dir Upper, 12mm in Parachinar and 12mm in Dera Ismail Khan. Meanwhile, at least six people were electrocuted in Karachi as heavy rains lashed parts of the metropolis and Sindh on Sunday.

8 dead as rains wreak havoc in northwest Pakistan

At least 11 people have lost their lives in Gujarat in last 24 hour as incessant rains wreak havoc in the state, said Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast extremely heavy falls at isolated places are very likely over Gujarat state during the next 24 hours. Gujarat has been witnessing incessant rainfall during this season which led to flood-like situation in several districts.

"We are getting heavy rains in Rajkot, Jamnagar and other places. Next 24 hours Saurashtra and Kutch will receive have rainfall. 11 people have died in the last 24 hours," Rupani said following a meeting with senior officials of the state over flood situation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rescue-and-relief-work-beefs-up-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-india-241982">Rescue operation to evacuate people</a> to a safer place is underway. So far around 6,000 people have been shifted. Collectors of the district and other senior state officials are on alert.

Meanwhile, Around 17 dams including Ukai Dam and Sardar Sarovar dam are overflowing.&nbsp;

At least 11 people have lost their lives in Gujarat in last 24 hour as incessant rains wreak havoc in the state, said Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday. India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast extremely heavy falls at isolated places are very likely over Gujarat state during the next 24 hours.

At least 11 people have lost their lives in Gujarat in last 24 hour as incessant rains wreak havoc in the state, said Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday. India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast extremely heavy falls at isolated places are very likely over Gujarat state during the next 24 hours. Gujarat has been witnessing incessant rainfall during this season which led to flood-like situation in several districts. "We are getting heavy rains in Rajkot, Jamnagar and other places. Next 24 hours Saurashtra and Kutch will receive have rainfall. 11 people have died in the last 24 hours," Rupani said following a meeting with senior officials of the state over flood situation. Rescue operation to evacuate people to a safer place is underway. So far around 6,000 people have been shifted. Collectors of the district and other senior state officials are on alert. Meanwhile, Around 17 dams including Ukai Dam and Sardar Sarovar dam are overflowing.

Around 11 people killed in last 24 hours due to heavy rain in Gujarat

All trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said.

The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station.

At least 16 people have lost their lives due to the prevailing flood situation in Pune, including districts of Satara, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur.

As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, "Four people died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur."

The statement said that a total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

All trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said. The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station.

All trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said. The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station. At least 16 people have lost their lives due to the prevailing flood situation in Pune, including districts of Satara, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur. As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, "Four people died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur." The statement said that a total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts.

Maharashtra: Trains services on Pune-Miraj section suspended

Security forces have rescued as many as 300 stranded people from across Kalyan.

Indian Army and Indian Air Force conducted the operation jointly on Saturday.

Meanwhile, IAF with help of its Mi17 helicopter also airlifted nine personnel stranded on the rooftop of a building.

Also, Army, Navy and Air Force teams provided packed food and water to all the rescued personnel.

In a separate operation, security forces rescued around 115 people who were stranded for hours at a petrol pump which got submerged in water due to the overflowing of Ulhas river.

On the other hand, India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday predicted that Raigad, Thane, Palghar and some parts of Ratnagiri in Maharashtra will witness heavy rainfall at isolated places during the weekend.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Security forces have rescued as many as 300 stranded people from across Kalyan. Indian Army and Indian Air Force conducted the operation jointly on Saturday. Meanwhile, IAF with help of its Mi17 helicopter also airlifted nine personnel stranded on the rooftop of a building.

Security forces have rescued as many as 300 stranded people from across Kalyan. Indian Army and Indian Air Force conducted the operation jointly on Saturday. Meanwhile, IAF with help of its Mi17 helicopter also airlifted nine personnel stranded on the rooftop of a building. Also, Army, Navy and Air Force teams provided packed food and water to all the rescued personnel. In a separate operation, security forces rescued around 115 people who were stranded for hours at a petrol pump which got submerged in water due to the overflowing of Ulhas river. On the other hand, India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday predicted that Raigad, Thane, Palghar and some parts of Ratnagiri in Maharashtra will witness heavy rainfall at isolated places during the weekend.

Mumbai rains: 300 people stranded in Kalyan rescued

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said that as per "standard practice," it had received satellite data related to floods in different regions of the country from eight nations including US, Russia, and China, due to its membership of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters.

The non-binding charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER, which is a platform that facilitates the use of space-based technologies for disaster management and emergency response.

"The National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC) represents ISRO as a member of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters. The charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER. By combining Earth observation assets from different space agencies, the charter allows resources and expertise to be coordinated for rapid response to major disaster situations," said Raveesh Kumar, MEA`s Spokesperson.

"Whenever there is a natural disaster, NRSC, and member space agencies of other 32 countries which are a part of the charter can activate the charter and then the charter seeks the information pertaining to the disaster-hit area available with all the 33 member space agencies," he added.

"This is the standard practice. Due to the heavy floods in India, the charter was activated on July 17 by NRSC. Under the charter, so far data has been received from eight countries, including USGS, CNES, ESA, ROSCOSMOS, Chinese National Space Agency (CNSA) and 3 others.ISRO has also provided information to other space agencies in response to similar requests," Kumar lastly said.

The Chinese Ambassador to India, Sun Weidong, had earlier said that China had provided India with satellite data related to the floods, which has seen widespread damage in regions like Assam, Manipur, Bihar, etc.

While infrastructural damage has been reported, scores of people have also lost their lives due to the floods. Several animals, including the vulnerable rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park, have also died in the calamity.&nbsp;

Rescue operations are currently underway in the affected regions.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said that as per "standard practice," it had received satellite data related to floods in different regions of the country from eight nations including US, Russia, and China, due to its membership of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said that as per "standard practice," it had received satellite data related to floods in different regions of the country from eight nations including US, Russia, and China, due to its membership of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters. The non-binding charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER, which is a platform that facilitates the use of space-based technologies for disaster management and emergency response. "The National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC) represents ISRO as a member of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters. The charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER. By combining Earth observation assets from different space agencies, the charter allows resources and expertise to be coordinated for rapid response to major disaster situations," said Raveesh Kumar, MEA`s Spokesperson. "Whenever there is a natural disaster, NRSC, and member space agencies of other 32 countries which are a part of the charter can activate the charter and then the charter seeks the information pertaining to the disaster-hit area available with all the 33 member space agencies," he added. "This is the standard practice. Due to the heavy floods in India, the charter was activated on July 17 by NRSC. Under the charter, so far data has been received from eight countries, including USGS, CNES, ESA, ROSCOSMOS, Chinese National Space Agency (CNSA) and 3 others.ISRO has also provided information to other space agencies in response to similar requests," Kumar lastly said. The Chinese Ambassador to India, Sun Weidong, had earlier said that China had provided India with satellite data related to the floods, which has seen widespread damage in regions like Assam, Manipur, Bihar, etc. While infrastructural damage has been reported, scores of people have also lost their lives due to the floods. Several animals, including the vulnerable rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park, have also died in the calamity. Rescue operations are currently underway in the affected regions.

India received satellite data related to floods from 8 countries as per standard practice: MEA

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday said heavy rainfall is likely to lash Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and West Uttar Pradesh today.

The weather forecasting agency said isolated places over Konkan, Goa, West Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, East Rajasthan and Gangetic West Bengal are also expected to witness incessant rains later in the day.

In Uttar Pradesh, the IMD said rain/thundershowers and lightning are very likely to occur in the next three hours at isolated places over Jhansi, Jalaun, Rampur, Bareilly, Raebareli, Pratapgarh, Moradabad districts and adjoining areas.

Intense spells of rain are very likely to occur in Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Palghar, Ratnagiri and Nashik in the next four hours, the forecaster observed.

Northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura are also likely to witness heavy spells of rain until July 27.

"By July 29, the Monsoon Trough will once again start shifting to North that would lead to the revival of Monsoon activities over Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh. Hence, we can say that the northeastern states will continue to witness good rain and thundershowers for the rest of July," said Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency.

Strong winds of speed hovering around 40-50 kmph are likely to prevail over southwest and the west-central Arabian Sea. Rough to very rough sea conditions are very likely to prevail along and off south Tamil Nadu coast, it added.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into seas in these areas for the next few days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday said heavy rainfall is likely to lash Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and West Uttar Pradesh today. The weather forecasting agency said isolated places over Konkan, Goa, West Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, East Rajasthan and Gangetic West Bengal are also expected to witness incessant rains later in the day.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday said heavy rainfall is likely to lash Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and West Uttar Pradesh today. The weather forecasting agency said isolated places over Konkan, Goa, West Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, East Rajasthan and Gangetic West Bengal are also expected to witness incessant rains later in the day. In Uttar Pradesh, the IMD said rain/thundershowers and lightning are very likely to occur in the next three hours at isolated places over Jhansi, Jalaun, Rampur, Bareilly, Raebareli, Pratapgarh, Moradabad districts and adjoining areas. Intense spells of rain are very likely to occur in Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Palghar, Ratnagiri and Nashik in the next four hours, the forecaster observed. Northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura are also likely to witness heavy spells of rain until July 27. "By July 29, the Monsoon Trough will once again start shifting to North that would lead to the revival of Monsoon activities over Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh. Hence, we can say that the northeastern states will continue to witness good rain and thundershowers for the rest of July," said Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency. Strong winds of speed hovering around 40-50 kmph are likely to prevail over southwest and the west-central Arabian Sea. Rough to very rough sea conditions are very likely to prevail along and off south Tamil Nadu coast, it added. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into seas in these areas for the next few days.

Heavy rains likely in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana today: IMD

Rains lashed parts of the national capital on Sunday afternoon, bringing respite to people from heat and humid weather.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places over Delhi and adjoining areas on Sunday evening with the possibility of maximum temperatures settling at 27 degree Celsius and 37 degree Celsius respectively.

According to SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting), the air quality in the city is in the moderate category with an index value of 101.

The heavy downpour also caused water-logging and traffic snarls in several parts of the city.

Skymet in a tweet said, "Light to moderate spell of rain and thundershowers will occur at many places over North Delhi, Central Delhi, parts of South Delhi and North West Delhi during the next 2-3 hours."

Besides Delhi, IMD has also predicted extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places over Kerala and Mahe.

It has also predicted thunderstorm accompanied with lightning very likely at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Sikkim.

The weather body has also advised fisherman not to venture out in sea due to rough sea conditions over south Bay of Bengal and southwest and central Arabian Sea.&nbsp;

Rains lashed parts of the national capital on Sunday afternoon, bringing respite to people from heat and humid weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places over Delhi and adjoining areas on Sunday evening with the possibility of maximum temperatures settling at 27 degree Celsius and 37 degree Celsius respectively.

Rains lashed parts of the national capital on Sunday afternoon, bringing respite to people from heat and humid weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places over Delhi and adjoining areas on Sunday evening with the possibility of maximum temperatures settling at 27 degree Celsius and 37 degree Celsius respectively. According to SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting), the air quality in the city is in the moderate category with an index value of 101. The heavy downpour also caused water-logging and traffic snarls in several parts of the city. Skymet in a tweet said, "Light to moderate spell of rain and thundershowers will occur at many places over North Delhi, Central Delhi, parts of South Delhi and North West Delhi during the next 2-3 hours." Besides Delhi, IMD has also predicted extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places over Kerala and Mahe. It has also predicted thunderstorm accompanied with lightning very likely at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Sikkim. The weather body has also advised fisherman not to venture out in sea due to rough sea conditions over south Bay of Bengal and southwest and central Arabian Sea.

Rain lashes parts of Delhi, temperature dips to 27 degrees

Torrential rains battered many areas in Guilin City, in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Saturday with many urban areas severely waterlogged.

Torrential rains inundate south China city

Driving <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-overcast-clouds-rain-expected-at-manchester-ahead-of-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-234185">rains</a> flooded parts of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/4th-july-celebrations-battle-tanks-arrive-in-washington-trump-promises-incredible-flyovers-biggest-ever-fireworks-232578">Washington, D.C.,</a> on Monday, shattering a daily record in just an hour, forcing 15 swift-water rescues from stranded cars and causing an undeniable leak in the White House.

"This is a life-threatening situation. Seek higher ground now!" the National Weather Service warned amid torrential <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/railway-services-resume-in-mumbai-amid-heavy-rains-no-water-logging-reported-234162">rains</a> that dropped 3.3 inches (8.4 cm) at Reagan National Airport from 9 a.m. through 10 a.m. ET (1200-1300 GMT), shattering in one hour the previous record of 2.2 inches (5.6 cm) set in 1958.

It was the seventh-wettest July day since record-keeping began in 1871, said NWS meteorologist Marc Chenard.

"They broke their daily record in an hour," he said.

Even more, rainfall was recorded further northwest, in Arlington, Virginia, where about 5 inches (12.7 cm) fell from 9 to 10 a.m., Chenard said.

The rains eased by late morning and were expected to end by midday, Chenard said.

Torrents of water streamed through the ceiling of Metro stations, and major arteries serving Washington's top museums and memorials shut down due to high water as local emergency personnel reported rescuing several people from cars. By midday, DC Fire and EMS said it had saved 15 drivers.

Firefighters used yellow rubber lifeboats to rescue those trapped by the flood waters.

Twitter images showed a photograph of a very wet floor beneath office chairs and desks on the basement level of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

"White House is leaking," CNN journalist Betsy Klein tweeted with the picture.

Driving rains flooded parts of Washington, D.C., on Monday, shattering a daily record in just an hour, forcing 15 swift-water rescues from stranded cars and causing an undeniable leak in the White House.

Driving rains flooded parts of Washington, D.C., on Monday, shattering a daily record in just an hour, forcing 15 swift-water rescues from stranded cars and causing an undeniable leak in the White House. "This is a life-threatening situation. Seek higher ground now!" the National Weather Service warned amid torrential rains that dropped 3.3 inches (8.4 cm) at Reagan National Airport from 9 a.m. through 10 a.m. ET (1200-1300 GMT), shattering in one hour the previous record of 2.2 inches (5.6 cm) set in 1958. It was the seventh-wettest July day since record-keeping began in 1871, said NWS meteorologist Marc Chenard. "They broke their daily record in an hour," he said. Even more, rainfall was recorded further northwest, in Arlington, Virginia, where about 5 inches (12.7 cm) fell from 9 to 10 a.m., Chenard said. The rains eased by late morning and were expected to end by midday, Chenard said. Torrents of water streamed through the ceiling of Metro stations, and major arteries serving Washington's top museums and memorials shut down due to high water as local emergency personnel reported rescuing several people from cars. By midday, DC Fire and EMS said it had saved 15 drivers. Firefighters used yellow rubber lifeboats to rescue those trapped by the flood waters. Twitter images showed a photograph of a very wet floor beneath office chairs and desks on the basement level of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. "White House is leaking," CNN journalist Betsy Klein tweeted with the picture.

Life-threatening rains pound US capital; White House basement offices leak

Heavy to very heavy rains are expected in Rajasthan, Andaman and Nicobar, Chhattisgarh and few other parts of the country today, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said on Monday.

"Heavy to Very Heavy rainfall at isolated places very likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim; Heavy rainfall at isolated places over south Rajasthan, Saurashtra and Kutch, Andaman and Nicobar, West Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya" NDMA tweeted today.

Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said, thunderstorm accompanied with lightning, hail and gusty winds (40-50kmph) are very likely to be expected in the isolated regions over west Madhya Pradesh and east Rajasthan on Monday.

Heavy to very heavy rains are predicted in the above regions for news three to four days, IMD released in a bulletin today.

In the wake of the severe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-vayu-weakens-to-cross-gujarat-coast-by-night-227912">cyclone Vayu</a> recurving again, strong wind speed of the 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph very likely to commence along and off Gujarat coast from the morning and gradually become squally winds speed reaching 50-60 kmph gusting to 70 kmph towards the afternoon.

The sea condition is likely to be rough to very rough over rest parts of east-central Arabian Sea and rough to very rough along and off Gujarat coast.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the north Arabian Sea, the east-central Arabian Sea and along and off Gujarat coast for next few days.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Heavy to very heavy rains are expected in Rajasthan, Andaman and Nicobar, Chhattisgarh and few other parts of the country today, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said on Monday.

Heavy to very heavy rains are expected in Rajasthan, Andaman and Nicobar, Chhattisgarh and few other parts of the country today, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said on Monday. "Heavy to Very Heavy rainfall at isolated places very likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim; Heavy rainfall at isolated places over south Rajasthan, Saurashtra and Kutch, Andaman and Nicobar, West Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya" NDMA tweeted today. Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said, thunderstorm accompanied with lightning, hail and gusty winds (40-50kmph) are very likely to be expected in the isolated regions over west Madhya Pradesh and east Rajasthan on Monday. Heavy to very heavy rains are predicted in the above regions for news three to four days, IMD released in a bulletin today. In the wake of the severe cyclone Vayu recurving again, strong wind speed of the 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph very likely to commence along and off Gujarat coast from the morning and gradually become squally winds speed reaching 50-60 kmph gusting to 70 kmph towards the afternoon. The sea condition is likely to be rough to very rough over rest parts of east-central Arabian Sea and rough to very rough along and off Gujarat coast. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the north Arabian Sea, the east-central Arabian Sea and along and off Gujarat coast for next few days.

Heavy rains predicted for Rajasthan, Andaman and Nicobar, Chhattisgarh

Heavy showers brought fast-paced Mumbai to a grinding halt on Monday evening, throwing local train services off kilter and disrupting flight operations at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Watch this video to know more.

Heavy rains lash Mumbai

A severe cyclonic storm is likely to hit Gujarat on June 12 night with a wind speed of 130-140 kilometres per hour, the India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-all-time-high-of-48-degree-celsius-226013">Meteorological Department (IMD)</a> said on Monday night.&nbsp;

The Cyclone Warning Division of the IMD said the deep depression over east-central and adjoining Southeast Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep lays centred at about 320 km northwest of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), 680 km south-southwest of Mumbai (Maharashtra) and 840 km south-southeast of Veraval (Gujarat).

"It is very likely to intensify further into a Cyclonic Storm during next 12 hours and into a Severe Cyclonic Storm in subsequent 24 hours.

"It is very likely to move nearly northward and cross Gujarat coast between Porbandar and Mahuva around Veraval and Diu region as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm with wind speed 130-140 kmph gusting to 155 kmph during midnight of June 12," the Cyclone Warning Division bulletin said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rain-lashes-different-parts-of-mumbai-226101">Rain lashes different parts of Mumbai</a>

The state has been put on alert following the IMD prediction.&nbsp;

With the warning of a heavy rainfall in parts of Gujarat, the state government has decided to deploy NDRF personnel in coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch from Tuesday morning.

The government will also put the Army, the Navy and the Coast Guard on alert.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of heavy rains with winds blowing at the speed of over 110 km on June 13 and 14 in coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch.

It has also advised fishermen against venturing into the sea in the next few days while ports have been directed to flag a danger signal.

"A heavy rain warning has been issued for Saurashtra and Kutch on June 13 and 14 due to the depression in the Arabian Sea which will turn into a severe cyclonic storm," state meteorological department director Jayanta Sarkar told reporters in Ahmedabad.

After the weather warning, the government convened a high-level meeting in which it decided to deploy 15 teams of the NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) immediately.

"We have alerted all district collectors of coastal Gujarat to take immediate steps keeping in mind the likelihood of a cyclone," Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue, Pankaj Kumar told reporters.

"Besides, we have called a meeting of all the defense forces. We have decided to deploy 15 teams of NDRF in coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch from tomorrow morning. We have asked the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard to remain ready to help the state in any untoward situation," he said, adding that the government is monitoring the situation along with the MeT department and ISRO.

On Monday, the depression over south-east adjoining Lakshadweep and east-central Arabian Sea, moved northwards with a speed of about 31 kilometres per hour.

"It (Cyclone) is very likely to cause an adverse impact in terms of wind and rainfall over Saurashtra and Kutch, mainly on June 13 and 14," a statement by the MeT department said.&nbsp;

"It is very likely to cause an adverse impact in terms of wind and rainfall over Saurashtra and Kutch, mainly on June 13 and 14," the release said.

Gujarat is at present reeling under severe heat wave as the maximum temperatures in major cities, including Ahmedabad, hovering over 43 degrees Celsius since the last week of May.

Sarkar said the severe cyclonic storm is likely to cause heavy rains and winds in the coastal districts of Saurashtra, like Bhavnagar, Amreli, Junagadh, Jamangar, Porbandar, Dwarka and also Kutch.

The setting of monsoon, which usually happens around June 15, will be further delayed as the cyclonic storm could disturb its advancement.

The monsoon was anyway expected to be delayed by a week due to its late arrival in Kerala, said another official.

A severe cyclonic storm is likely to hit Gujarat on June 12 night with a wind speed of 130-140 kilometres per hour, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday night.

A severe cyclonic storm is likely to hit Gujarat on June 12 night with a wind speed of 130-140 kilometres per hour, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday night. The Cyclone Warning Division of the IMD said the deep depression over east-central and adjoining Southeast Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep lays centred at about 320 km northwest of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), 680 km south-southwest of Mumbai (Maharashtra) and 840 km south-southeast of Veraval (Gujarat). "It is very likely to intensify further into a Cyclonic Storm during next 12 hours and into a Severe Cyclonic Storm in subsequent 24 hours. "It is very likely to move nearly northward and cross Gujarat coast between Porbandar and Mahuva around Veraval and Diu region as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm with wind speed 130-140 kmph gusting to 155 kmph during midnight of June 12," the Cyclone Warning Division bulletin said. Also read: Rain lashes different parts of Mumbai The state has been put on alert following the IMD prediction. With the warning of a heavy rainfall in parts of Gujarat, the state government has decided to deploy NDRF personnel in coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch from Tuesday morning. The government will also put the Army, the Navy and the Coast Guard on alert. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of heavy rains with winds blowing at the speed of over 110 km on June 13 and 14 in coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch. It has also advised fishermen against venturing into the sea in the next few days while ports have been directed to flag a danger signal. "A heavy rain warning has been issued for Saurashtra and Kutch on June 13 and 14 due to the depression in the Arabian Sea which will turn into a severe cyclonic storm," state meteorological department director Jayanta Sarkar told reporters in Ahmedabad. After the weather warning, the government convened a high-level meeting in which it decided to deploy 15 teams of the NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) immediately. "We have alerted all district collectors of coastal Gujarat to take immediate steps keeping in mind the likelihood of a cyclone," Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue, Pankaj Kumar told reporters. "Besides, we have called a meeting of all the defense forces. We have decided to deploy 15 teams of NDRF in coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch from tomorrow morning. We have asked the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard to remain ready to help the state in any untoward situation," he said, adding that the government is monitoring the situation along with the MeT department and ISRO. On Monday, the depression over south-east adjoining Lakshadweep and east-central Arabian Sea, moved northwards with a speed of about 31 kilometres per hour. "It (Cyclone) is very likely to cause an adverse impact in terms of wind and rainfall over Saurashtra and Kutch, mainly on June 13 and 14," a statement by the MeT department said. "It is very likely to cause an adverse impact in terms of wind and rainfall over Saurashtra and Kutch, mainly on June 13 and 14," the release said. Gujarat is at present reeling under severe heat wave as the maximum temperatures in major cities, including Ahmedabad, hovering over 43 degrees Celsius since the last week of May. Sarkar said the severe cyclonic storm is likely to cause heavy rains and winds in the coastal districts of Saurashtra, like Bhavnagar, Amreli, Junagadh, Jamangar, Porbandar, Dwarka and also Kutch. The setting of monsoon, which usually happens around June 15, will be further delayed as the cyclonic storm could disturb its advancement. The monsoon was anyway expected to be delayed by a week due to its late arrival in Kerala, said another official.

Severe cyclonic storm likely to hit Gujarat on June 12 night: India Meteorological Department

Rain accompanied by heavy wind lashed several parts of the city on Monday night, bringing the mercury down by a few notches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-all-time-high-of-48-degree-celsius-226013">Delhi records all-time high of 48 degree Celsius</a>

Heavy rain showers were witnessed in some areas of Churchgate, Kandiwali West, Vile Parle and Thane, giving much-needed respite from the sultry heat.

People were seen playing on the streets and getting drenched in the downpour.

On Sunday too there were rains and thunder in some parts of the city including Wadala, Ghatkopar, Mankhurd, Govandi, Bhandup to Mulund area.

Mumbai would witness monsoon officially by June 16 to 17, while pre-monsoon showers are likely to occur by next week, according to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

Maximum temperature touched 36.6 degrees Celsius on Monday, while the minimum temperature was a normal 25.8 degrees Celsius, as per the weather department.

Many parts of Maharashtra are still under the grip of acute water crisis and drought-like-situation.&nbsp;

To counter the prevalent issue, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has allocated Rs 30 crore for cloud seeding.

Rain accompanied by heavy wind lashed several parts of the city on Monday night, bringing the mercury down by a few notches. Also read: Delhi records all-time high of 48 degree Celsius Heavy rain showers were witnessed in some areas of Churchgate, Kandiwali West, Vile Parle and Thane, giving much-needed respite from the sultry heat.

Rain accompanied by heavy wind lashed several parts of the city on Monday night, bringing the mercury down by a few notches. Also read: Delhi records all-time high of 48 degree Celsius Heavy rain showers were witnessed in some areas of Churchgate, Kandiwali West, Vile Parle and Thane, giving much-needed respite from the sultry heat. People were seen playing on the streets and getting drenched in the downpour. On Sunday too there were rains and thunder in some parts of the city including Wadala, Ghatkopar, Mankhurd, Govandi, Bhandup to Mulund area. Mumbai would witness monsoon officially by June 16 to 17, while pre-monsoon showers are likely to occur by next week, according to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Maximum temperature touched 36.6 degrees Celsius on Monday, while the minimum temperature was a normal 25.8 degrees Celsius, as per the weather department. Many parts of Maharashtra are still under the grip of acute water crisis and drought-like-situation. To counter the prevalent issue, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has allocated Rs 30 crore for cloud seeding.

Rain lashes different parts of Mumbai

After a delay of a week, monsoon hit the Kerala coast on Saturday, marking the official commencement of the four-month rainfall season in the country.

"Monsoon has made an onset over Kerala today (June 8)," said India Meteorological Department's Director General-designate Mrutyunjay Mohapatra.

Several parts of Kerala have started receiving a good amount of rainfall. 
The news will augur well for the country as large parts have been witnessing agriculture distress and water levels in reservoirs in west and south India have dipped to low levels.

Most of rural India depends on the four-month monsoon season, which accounts for 75 per cent of the annual rainfall, due to a lack of adequate alternative source of irrigation. A good monsoon has a direct impact on the economy as agriculture remains the major contributor to India's GDP.

The north Indian plains, central India and parts of south India have been recording temperatures over 45 degrees Celsius. Mercury has soared to over 50 degrees in parts of Rajasthan.

On Thursday, IMD said the arrival of monsoon in Delhi is likely to be delayed by two-three days from its usual onset on June 29. However, Skymet said it may take at least a week longer.

The city is likely to receive normal monsoon. Northwest India too is likely to have normal monsoon.

The IMD declares onset of monsoon over Kerala if after May 10, sixty per cent of the available 14 stations "Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Allapuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kudulu and Mangalore" report rainfall of 2.5 millimetres or more for two consecutive days.

This is one of the important parameters to declare the onset of monsoon. The other two factors are speed of the westerlies and long-wave radiation. 
In 2016, monsoon arrived on the same day.

The IMD has made a forecast of 96 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) which falls on the border of normal and below normal rainfall. The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1951-2000 is 89 cm.

It has, however, maintained monsoon will be "normal" for 2019.

The rains in June are likely to be impacted due to El-Nino, although a weak one. It is generally believed that El-Nino, associated with the heating of Pacific waters, has an impact on monsoon.

The delay in monsoon has no co-relation to the overall quantum of the rainfall. However, monsoon will be late in other parts of the country due to its overall delay.

Monsoon arrived in the south Andaman Sea, its first Indian outpost before it reaches the mainland, on May 18.

Last month, the IMD said monsoon will reach Kerala on June 6, a delay of six days from its usual onset. However, conditions were not favourable for its progress.

After a delay of a week, monsoon hit the Kerala coast on Saturday, marking the official commencement of the four-month rainfall season in the country. "Monsoon has made an onset over Kerala today (June 8)," said India Meteorological Department's Director General-designate Mrutyunjay Mohapatra.

After a delay of a week, monsoon hit the Kerala coast on Saturday, marking the official commencement of the four-month rainfall season in the country. "Monsoon has made an onset over Kerala today (June 8)," said India Meteorological Department's Director General-designate Mrutyunjay Mohapatra. Several parts of Kerala have started receiving a good amount of rainfall. The news will augur well for the country as large parts have been witnessing agriculture distress and water levels in reservoirs in west and south India have dipped to low levels. Most of rural India depends on the four-month monsoon season, which accounts for 75 per cent of the annual rainfall, due to a lack of adequate alternative source of irrigation. A good monsoon has a direct impact on the economy as agriculture remains the major contributor to India's GDP. The north Indian plains, central India and parts of south India have been recording temperatures over 45 degrees Celsius. Mercury has soared to over 50 degrees in parts of Rajasthan. On Thursday, IMD said the arrival of monsoon in Delhi is likely to be delayed by two-three days from its usual onset on June 29. However, Skymet said it may take at least a week longer. The city is likely to receive normal monsoon. Northwest India too is likely to have normal monsoon. The IMD declares onset of monsoon over Kerala if after May 10, sixty per cent of the available 14 stations "Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Allapuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kudulu and Mangalore" report rainfall of 2.5 millimetres or more for two consecutive days. This is one of the important parameters to declare the onset of monsoon. The other two factors are speed of the westerlies and long-wave radiation. In 2016, monsoon arrived on the same day. The IMD has made a forecast of 96 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) which falls on the border of normal and below normal rainfall. The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1951-2000 is 89 cm. It has, however, maintained monsoon will be "normal" for 2019. The rains in June are likely to be impacted due to El-Nino, although a weak one. It is generally believed that El-Nino, associated with the heating of Pacific waters, has an impact on monsoon. The delay in monsoon has no co-relation to the overall quantum of the rainfall. However, monsoon will be late in other parts of the country due to its overall delay. Monsoon arrived in the south Andaman Sea, its first Indian outpost before it reaches the mainland, on May 18. Last month, the IMD said monsoon will reach Kerala on June 6, a delay of six days from its usual onset. However, conditions were not favourable for its progress.

After delay of a week, monsoon hits Kerala coast

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said that heavy rainfall is likely in Odisha after the monsoon reaches Kerala in next 96 hours.

"The monsoon is likely to reach Kerala during the next 96 hours. After the onset of monsoon in Kerala, we will tell about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-month-after-fani-164-lakh-families-still-in-darkness-224019">Odisha</a> advancement. In the next 24 hours, there will be thunderstorms at isolated places in the north and south Odisha," said HR Biswas, Director, MeT Department here on Tuesday.

"Cloud is moving towards the west to east. When monsoon clouds come, it will move from east to west. From June 8, there will be thunderstorm activity over Odisha along with heavy rainfall," he said.

The IMD has already issued warning about heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, movement of vehicles on National Highway 26 was hampered here on Monday as rain coupled with thunderstorm wreaked havoc in the region.

Several trees and electric poles were uprooted due to which vehicles were lined up for hours near Moter and Kusumkhunti.

The rains, however, brought much-needed respite for locals who were suffering from soaring temperatures in the region.

Earlier in the day, the Indian Meteorological Department's (MeT) local office had said monsoon will reach Odisha five to six days late this time.

&nbsp;

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said that heavy rainfall is likely in Odisha after the monsoon reaches Kerala in next 96 hours. "The monsoon is likely to reach Kerala during the next 96 hours.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said that heavy rainfall is likely in Odisha after the monsoon reaches Kerala in next 96 hours. "The monsoon is likely to reach Kerala during the next 96 hours. After the onset of monsoon in Kerala, we will tell about Odisha advancement. In the next 24 hours, there will be thunderstorms at isolated places in the north and south Odisha," said HR Biswas, Director, MeT Department here on Tuesday. "Cloud is moving towards the west to east. When monsoon clouds come, it will move from east to west. From June 8, there will be thunderstorm activity over Odisha along with heavy rainfall," he said. The IMD has already issued warning about heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, movement of vehicles on National Highway 26 was hampered here on Monday as rain coupled with thunderstorm wreaked havoc in the region. Several trees and electric poles were uprooted due to which vehicles were lined up for hours near Moter and Kusumkhunti. The rains, however, brought much-needed respite for locals who were suffering from soaring temperatures in the region. Earlier in the day, the Indian Meteorological Department's (MeT) local office had said monsoon will reach Odisha five to six days late this time.

Monsoon likely to reach Kerala in next four days, heavy rain expected in Odisha: MeT Department

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Rainfall in parts of the national capital Monday night brought some relief to Delhiites from scorching heat even as dust storms hit some areas of the city.&nbsp;

By 8:30 pm, traces of rainfall were recorded by the Met department but by 9 pm, parts of Delhi saw heavy showers.&nbsp;

Before the rainfall, the maximum temperature was recorded at 40.2 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature settled at 25 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

"Areas falling under the Palam Observatory and parts of the area falling under the Safdarjung Observatory saw dust storm with high-speed winds," a Met department official said.

The relative humidity recorded at 5.30 pm was 45 per cent.

On Sunday, the maximum temperature had settled at 39 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature was 25 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall in parts of the national capital Monday night brought some relief to Delhiites from scorching heat even as dust storms hit some areas of the city. By 8:30 pm, traces of rainfall were recorded by the Met department but by 9 pm, parts of Delhi saw heavy showers.

Rainfall in parts of the national capital Monday night brought some relief to Delhiites from scorching heat even as dust storms hit some areas of the city. By 8:30 pm, traces of rainfall were recorded by the Met department but by 9 pm, parts of Delhi saw heavy showers. Before the rainfall, the maximum temperature was recorded at 40.2 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature settled at 25 degrees Celsius. "Areas falling under the Palam Observatory and parts of the area falling under the Safdarjung Observatory saw dust storm with high-speed winds," a Met department official said. The relative humidity recorded at 5.30 pm was 45 per cent. On Sunday, the maximum temperature had settled at 39 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature was 25 degrees Celsius.

Rain brings some relief from scorching heat, dust storm in parts of Delhi

Authorities in Louisiana and Mississippi rescued people from their homes after heavy rains this weekend caused major flooding in the region.

Heavy rains in southern US leave some trapped

Delhi on Friday woke up to a cold morning with partly cloudy sky, with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering at 8 Degree Celsius and 24 Degree Celsius.

The pollution remains in the 'moderate'&nbsp;category with Air Quality Index docking at 132 in the morning.

Relative humidity at 8:30 in the morning was 97 per cent.

"Now for another 24 to 48 hours, in the absence of any significant weather system, the weather over Delhi-NCR will remain dry with the clear sky and bright sunshine. However, on March 2, another fresh Western Disturbance will approach the northern hills which will once again induce a cyclonic circulation over the northwestern plains. A trough will also extend from circulation up to South Uttar Pradesh," said Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency.

"This trough will be responsible for giving scattered rain and thundershowers over Delhi-NCR on March 2 and 3. Thereafter, the weather systems will once again weaken and move eastwards, leading to commencement of dry and cold northwesterly winds," it added.&nbsp;

Delhi on Friday woke up to a cold morning with partly cloudy sky, with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering at 8 Degree Celsius and 24 Degree Celsius. The pollution remains in the 'moderate' category with Air Quality Index docking at 132 in the morning.

Delhi on Friday woke up to a cold morning with partly cloudy sky, with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering at 8 Degree Celsius and 24 Degree Celsius. The pollution remains in the 'moderate' category with Air Quality Index docking at 132 in the morning. Relative humidity at 8:30 in the morning was 97 per cent. "Now for another 24 to 48 hours, in the absence of any significant weather system, the weather over Delhi-NCR will remain dry with the clear sky and bright sunshine. However, on March 2, another fresh Western Disturbance will approach the northern hills which will once again induce a cyclonic circulation over the northwestern plains. A trough will also extend from circulation up to South Uttar Pradesh," said Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency. "This trough will be responsible for giving scattered rain and thundershowers over Delhi-NCR on March 2 and 3. Thereafter, the weather systems will once again weaken and move eastwards, leading to commencement of dry and cold northwesterly winds," it added.

Delhi: Rains to begin from March 2

Rains over the last few days have washed away big pollutants in the national capital, contributing to a slight improvement in its Air Quality Index, which reached "moderate" levels on Saturday.

"The overall air quality over Delhi is moderate, purely attributed to rainfall. With overall Air Quality Index on Saturday recorded at 211 in the capital," the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) said.&nbsp;

The respite will not likely to stay for a long time as air quality is expected to deteriorate slowly due to stable weather conditions where low wind speeds with cooler temperature play a dominant role.

"The AQI is likely to deteriorate to poor for the next two days and may cross very poor by Monday possibility of moderate fog to continue," stated SAFAR.

On Saturday, the level of major pollutants in the air has improved significantly with particulate matter 10 (PM 10) plummeted to 118 from 154, while Particulate matter 2.5 (PM 2.5) recorded at 58 as compared to 93 recorded yesterday.

In the coming few days, the pollutants level in the Delhi`s air is likely to escalate but will remain in "moderate" to "satisfactory" level.

Temperatures in the various part of North India is also likely to drop in the coming days.

"The cold to severe cold wave conditions at isolated pockets are also likely to re-appear over parts of northwest India during end of January. Above normal minimum temperatures are likely over parts of northeast India and south peninsula," the IMD said in its weekly weather forecast &nbsp;

Rains over the last few days have washed away big pollutants in the national capital, contributing to a slight improvement in its Air Quality Index, which reached "moderate" levels on Saturday.

Rains over the last few days have washed away big pollutants in the national capital, contributing to a slight improvement in its Air Quality Index, which reached "moderate" levels on Saturday. "The overall air quality over Delhi is moderate, purely attributed to rainfall. With overall Air Quality Index on Saturday recorded at 211 in the capital," the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) said. The respite will not likely to stay for a long time as air quality is expected to deteriorate slowly due to stable weather conditions where low wind speeds with cooler temperature play a dominant role. "The AQI is likely to deteriorate to poor for the next two days and may cross very poor by Monday possibility of moderate fog to continue," stated SAFAR. On Saturday, the level of major pollutants in the air has improved significantly with particulate matter 10 (PM 10) plummeted to 118 from 154, while Particulate matter 2.5 (PM 2.5) recorded at 58 as compared to 93 recorded yesterday. In the coming few days, the pollutants level in the Delhi`s air is likely to escalate but will remain in "moderate" to "satisfactory" level. Temperatures in the various part of North India is also likely to drop in the coming days. "The cold to severe cold wave conditions at isolated pockets are also likely to re-appear over parts of northwest India during end of January. Above normal minimum temperatures are likely over parts of northeast India and south peninsula," the IMD said in its weekly weather forecast

Rains bring respite from pollution in Delhi

Extraordinary biodiversity richness is one of the reasons why India is incredible! Occupying just 2.5 per cent of the earth’s total land area, India holds 7 per cent flora and 6.5 per cent fauna of the world.&nbsp;

Western Ghats mountain range that extends over 1,500 km from River Tapi to Kanyakumari through the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala is one of the world’s eight hottest biodiversity hotspots.&nbsp;

The Ghats with an average elevation of 600m force the moisture-laden winds coming off the Arabian Sea to cause precipitation of 2,000 mm or more, with the western hill slopes receiving maximum rainfall while the eastern slopes remaining comparatively drier.&nbsp;

These typical conditions have evolved a wide range of habitat types like a tropical evergreen forest, moist deciduous and dry deciduous forest, dry thorn forest, lateritic plateaus and grassland. Around 5,000 species of plants, 500 bird species, 220 amphibians, 120 mammals is just a glimpse of its species richness! The Ghats are a centre of endemism with over 2,000 species of flora and fauna found only in this stretch of 1500 km, out of which 325 species are globally threatened – Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, Malabar Grey Hornbill to name a few. The UNESCO recognises 7,653.15 sq km of the Western Ghats as a World Heritage Site.

There is an inherent relationship between forests and water. Forests serve as natural sponges, collecting and filtering rainwater and releasing it slowly into streams and rivers such as Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, Koyna that originate and flow through the Ghats proving to be lifelines for the biodiversity and local people. 
 
India, a country with one of the oldest civilisations and a rich culture that respects and worships natural resources, protects large chunks of forests as ‘sacred groves’, where destructive activities like tree-cutting and hunting are disallowed. No person dares to break this system lest he is punished by the Almighty. This fear or respect has been largely responsible for conserving several areas such as forests around Sabarimala temple in Periyar Tiger Reserve, Kerala, and Lord Shiva temple in Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra.

Recognising these ecological, cultural and economical values, Prof. Gadgil Committee and Dr Kasturirangan Committee constituted by the Government of India in 2011 and 2013, respectively, recommended measures for long-term preservation of this ecologically fragile landscape. Gadgil committee report recommended declaring the entire WG landscape as Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA), divided under three sub-zones, with a ban on mining, thermal power plants, polluting industries and large dams, and the inclusion of local communities in biodiversity conservation and promoting eco-friendly activities.&nbsp;

Since this report rubbed many the wrong ways, the Kasturirangan committee was set up to review the Gadgil committee report. The Kasturirangan committee recommended to incentivise green growth that promotes sustainable and equitable development bringing only around 37 per cent Ghats area under the ESA out of the entire 1,64,000 sq km. Although significantly reduced, as compared to Gadgil Committee report, the area of 56,000 sq km recommended by Kasturirangan Committee report includes around 68-odd existing Protected Areas covering around 17,000 sq km area. The Central Government tried to bring in three draft notifications for declaring this as the Western Ghats Ecologically Sensitive Area (WGESA). 
 
However, none of the state governments concerned have shown any inclination to support this notification. Rajya Sabha Committee on Government Assurances has recently expressed its dissent over the insensitive approach of the concerned state governments as the mayhem caused by 2018 Kerala floods is believed to have resulted due to illegal quarrying and deforestation that triggered landslides in the Ghats. In 2014, a village named Malin was buried under a massive landslide at the foothills of Ghats in Maharashtra largely due to deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices on the hills above. 
 
Had the state governments adopted the WGESA notification, perhaps the above catastrophes costing thousands of human lives could have been avoided. There is an increasing trend to convert privately-owned forests to monoculture plantations of exotic species such as rubber causing severe loss of biodiversity and associated ecological services. Illegal hunting and indiscriminate plant collection by some local communities are other threats for the local biodiversity. Haphazard and unsustainable tourism development in existing ESAs such as Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani is playing havoc with natural ecosystems. Despite being one of the wettest areas, drinking water shortage and depletion of groundwater have emerged as major environmental issues.&nbsp;

India’s economic policies should be built on strong ecological foundations that ensure an environmentally sound and sustainable future to 50 million people and prevent species extinction of this beautiful landscape.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-protecting-the-western-ghats-is-in-national-interest-2710964">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Extraordinary biodiversity richness is one of the reasons why India is incredible! Occupying just 2.5 per cent of the earth’s total land area, India holds 7 per cent flora and 6.

Extraordinary biodiversity richness is one of the reasons why India is incredible! Occupying just 2.5 per cent of the earth’s total land area, India holds 7 per cent flora and 6.5 per cent fauna of the world. Western Ghats mountain range that extends over 1,500 km from River Tapi to Kanyakumari through the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala is one of the world’s eight hottest biodiversity hotspots. The Ghats with an average elevation of 600m force the moisture-laden winds coming off the Arabian Sea to cause precipitation of 2,000 mm or more, with the western hill slopes receiving maximum rainfall while the eastern slopes remaining comparatively drier. These typical conditions have evolved a wide range of habitat types like a tropical evergreen forest, moist deciduous and dry deciduous forest, dry thorn forest, lateritic plateaus and grassland. Around 5,000 species of plants, 500 bird species, 220 amphibians, 120 mammals is just a glimpse of its species richness! The Ghats are a centre of endemism with over 2,000 species of flora and fauna found only in this stretch of 1500 km, out of which 325 species are globally threatened – Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, Malabar Grey Hornbill to name a few. The UNESCO recognises 7,653.15 sq km of the Western Ghats as a World Heritage Site. There is an inherent relationship between forests and water. Forests serve as natural sponges, collecting and filtering rainwater and releasing it slowly into streams and rivers such as Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, Koyna that originate and flow through the Ghats proving to be lifelines for the biodiversity and local people. India, a country with one of the oldest civilisations and a rich culture that respects and worships natural resources, protects large chunks of forests as ‘sacred groves’, where destructive activities like tree-cutting and hunting are disallowed. No person dares to break this system lest he is punished by the Almighty. This fear or respect has been largely responsible for conserving several areas such as forests around Sabarimala temple in Periyar Tiger Reserve, Kerala, and Lord Shiva temple in Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra. Recognising these ecological, cultural and economical values, Prof. Gadgil Committee and Dr Kasturirangan Committee constituted by the Government of India in 2011 and 2013, respectively, recommended measures for long-term preservation of this ecologically fragile landscape. Gadgil committee report recommended declaring the entire WG landscape as Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA), divided under three sub-zones, with a ban on mining, thermal power plants, polluting industries and large dams, and the inclusion of local communities in biodiversity conservation and promoting eco-friendly activities. Since this report rubbed many the wrong ways, the Kasturirangan committee was set up to review the Gadgil committee report. The Kasturirangan committee recommended to incentivise green growth that promotes sustainable and equitable development bringing only around 37 per cent Ghats area under the ESA out of the entire 1,64,000 sq km. Although significantly reduced, as compared to Gadgil Committee report, the area of 56,000 sq km recommended by Kasturirangan Committee report includes around 68-odd existing Protected Areas covering around 17,000 sq km area. The Central Government tried to bring in three draft notifications for declaring this as the Western Ghats Ecologically Sensitive Area (WGESA). However, none of the state governments concerned have shown any inclination to support this notification. Rajya Sabha Committee on Government Assurances has recently expressed its dissent over the insensitive approach of the concerned state governments as the mayhem caused by 2018 Kerala floods is believed to have resulted due to illegal quarrying and deforestation that triggered landslides in the Ghats. In 2014, a village named Malin was buried under a massive landslide at the foothills of Ghats in Maharashtra largely due to deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices on the hills above. Had the state governments adopted the WGESA notification, perhaps the above catastrophes costing thousands of human lives could have been avoided. There is an increasing trend to convert privately-owned forests to monoculture plantations of exotic species such as rubber causing severe loss of biodiversity and associated ecological services. Illegal hunting and indiscriminate plant collection by some local communities are other threats for the local biodiversity. Haphazard and unsustainable tourism development in existing ESAs such as Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani is playing havoc with natural ecosystems. Despite being one of the wettest areas, drinking water shortage and depletion of groundwater have emerged as major environmental issues. India’s economic policies should be built on strong ecological foundations that ensure an environmentally sound and sustainable future to 50 million people and prevent species extinction of this beautiful landscape. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Protecting the Western Ghats is in national interest

Six trekkers from Delhi and Shimla have reportedly been missing in Himachal Pradesh's tribal Kinnaur district due to bad weather since September 21, news agency ANI reported Tuesday.

The youths reportedly all below 27 years of age, had started the trek from Jakha in Dodra Kwar Tehsil in Shimla district on Friday and were supposed to reach Sangla in Kinnaur district.

Three trekkers identified as, Puneet, Nikhil and Ashutosh,&nbsp;are reportedly from Jubbal area in Shimla district. However, the identities of the other three were yet to be ascertained but they are&nbsp;said to be from Delhi.

According to reports, the rescue operation for locating and bringing them to safer places will restart from Wednesday morning.

The ANI further reported that a rescue team has already been constituted which has proceeded towards Kinnaur on Tuesday morning and it would start trekking Sangta from Jakha on Wednesday.

Kinnaur police have also been intimated and a police rescue team along with the jawans of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has proceeded towards the Rupin pass.

On Tuesday, a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/group-50-stranded-trekkers-safe-lahaul-spiti-himachal-pradesh-cm-167553">group of 50 missing trekkers was rescued</a> after they also went missing in Lahaul-Spiti due to bad weather.

The group had gone for a trek to the Hampta pass and were supposed to return to Manali.&nbsp;

Himachal Pradesh has been bearing the brunt of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/himachal-pradesh-five-dead-rains-schools-remain-closed-three-districts-today-167505">torrential rainfall</a> over the last few days.&nbsp;

At least five people have lost their lives and many have been injured in separate incidents as heavy rains lashed Kullu, Kangra and Chmba districts of Himachal Pradesh.

&nbsp;

Six trekkers from Delhi and Shimla have reportedly been missing in Himachal Pradesh's tribal Kinnaur district due to bad weather since September 21, news agency ANI reported Tuesday.

Six trekkers from Delhi and Shimla have reportedly been missing in Himachal Pradesh's tribal Kinnaur district due to bad weather since September 21, news agency ANI reported Tuesday. The youths reportedly all below 27 years of age, had started the trek from Jakha in Dodra Kwar Tehsil in Shimla district on Friday and were supposed to reach Sangla in Kinnaur district. Three trekkers identified as, Puneet, Nikhil and Ashutosh, are reportedly from Jubbal area in Shimla district. However, the identities of the other three were yet to be ascertained but they are said to be from Delhi. According to reports, the rescue operation for locating and bringing them to safer places will restart from Wednesday morning. The ANI further reported that a rescue team has already been constituted which has proceeded towards Kinnaur on Tuesday morning and it would start trekking Sangta from Jakha on Wednesday. Kinnaur police have also been intimated and a police rescue team along with the jawans of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has proceeded towards the Rupin pass. On Tuesday, a group of 50 missing trekkers was rescued after they also went missing in Lahaul-Spiti due to bad weather. The group had gone for a trek to the Hampta pass and were supposed to return to Manali. Himachal Pradesh has been bearing the brunt of torrential rainfall over the last few days. At least five people have lost their lives and many have been injured in separate incidents as heavy rains lashed Kullu, Kangra and Chmba districts of Himachal Pradesh.

Himachal rains: Search operation to locate 6 missing trekkers to begin Wednesday

Five people died and many were injured in separate incidents as heavy rains lashed Kullu, Kangra and Chamba districts of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, the officials said.

Four people, including a girl, died in Kullu, while a man died in Kangra district as heavy rains triggered flash floods and landslides in many parts of the state Monday.

Schools have been directed to remain closed in Kangra, Kullu and Hamirpur districts on Tuesday as a precautionary measure, they said.

As the water level in rivers and streams increased following the incessant rain, a man was swept away by the swelling Nahad Khad (rivulet) in Kangra, the district administration said.

Tilak Raj, a resident of Luskwara village in Jawali tehsil, was swept away when he was crossing the rivulet Monday morning. His body was recovered in Wuhl Khad with the help of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, the officials said.

The four people who lost their lives in Kullu include Rupa (18), Sultana (15) of Bajaoura, Mohit of Banjar, and Sarang (16) of Manikaran, Superintendent of Police (Kullu) Shalini Agnihotri said.

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HWkfo_d5tAc" width="560"></iframe>

Newly wedded couple Dalip Singh (21) and his wife Rupa (18) sustained critical injuries in a landslide between Pinni and Tikker in the district, Agnihotri said, adding that the wife was declared brought dead at a regional hospital, whereas Dalip was undergoing treatment.

Forest Minister Govind Singh Thakur visited several affected areas of Kullu and met the family members of the deceased to express his grief.

Several houses were also swept away in flash floods as the Beas is flowing at a dangerous level, he said, cautioning people against going near rivers and nullahs.

Indian Air Force personnel rescued two people stranded at Hurla village near Kullu's Bajaoura by airlifting them using a helicopter, the minister said.

Thakur also honoured Indian Air Force Squadron Leader Vipul Goel and his team for rescuing 19 people stranded due to flash floods at Dobi in Kullu district on Sunday.

Deputy Commissioner Yunus has sounded a "high alert" in Kullu district where initial loss of property in recent rains has been estimated at over Rs 20 crores.

All adventurous sports activities, including paragliding, have been banned in Kullu, district Tourism Development Officer BS Negi said.

Meanwhile, Kangra and Kullu deputy commissioners Sandeep Kumar and Yunus, respectively, have ordered the closure of all government and private educational institutions for the second consecutive day on Tuesday, officials said.

Hamirpur DC Richa Verma has declared that all government and private schools and anganwaris of the district would remain closed Tuesday. However, colleges in the district would remain open.

Meanwhile, four members of a family, Mukesh, his wife Shikha, their son and daughter sustained injuries in Chamba district, Superintendent of Police Monica Bhutunguru said.

The Ravi river is flowing at a dangerous level, and people are being evacuated from low-lying areas since Sunday, she added.

People residing in low-lying areas, especially in Kangra, Chamba, Kullu and Mandi districts, are being evacuated, officials said.

Kangra Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar has alerted officials and people residing in low-lying areas that water would be released from the Pandoh reservoir as per a message from his counterpart in Mandi.

The water level in the Pong Dam is running above the danger mark which has led to the Bhakra Beas Management Board's&nbsp;decision to open the floodgate of the dam, an official said.

Issuing a flood warning, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) said excess 49,000 cusecs water from the Beas Dam would be released on Tuesday at 3 pm. The water level of the dam already has reached 1,385.56 feet, he added.

The Himachal cabinet, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, reviewed the losses and rehabilitation and rescue operations being undertaken in the state.

A number of roads in various districts have been blocked due to landslides, and water and electricity supplies have been adversely affected in several areas, the officials added.

Most parts of Himachal Pradesh witnessed moderate to heavy rains on Monday too, Shimla MeT centre director Manmohan Singh said.

The weatherman further said that light to moderate rainfall would occur at scattered places over the mid and the low hills and at isolated places over the higher reaches of the state on September 25, and thereafter, the weather would almost be dry.&nbsp;

Five people died and many were injured in separate incidents as heavy rains lashed Kullu, Kangra and Chamba districts of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, the officials said.

Five people died and many were injured in separate incidents as heavy rains lashed Kullu, Kangra and Chamba districts of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, the officials said. Four people, including a girl, died in Kullu, while a man died in Kangra district as heavy rains triggered flash floods and landslides in many parts of the state Monday. Schools have been directed to remain closed in Kangra, Kullu and Hamirpur districts on Tuesday as a precautionary measure, they said. As the water level in rivers and streams increased following the incessant rain, a man was swept away by the swelling Nahad Khad (rivulet) in Kangra, the district administration said. Tilak Raj, a resident of Luskwara village in Jawali tehsil, was swept away when he was crossing the rivulet Monday morning. His body was recovered in Wuhl Khad with the help of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, the officials said. The four people who lost their lives in Kullu include Rupa (18), Sultana (15) of Bajaoura, Mohit of Banjar, and Sarang (16) of Manikaran, Superintendent of Police (Kullu) Shalini Agnihotri said. Newly wedded couple Dalip Singh (21) and his wife Rupa (18) sustained critical injuries in a landslide between Pinni and Tikker in the district, Agnihotri said, adding that the wife was declared brought dead at a regional hospital, whereas Dalip was undergoing treatment. Forest Minister Govind Singh Thakur visited several affected areas of Kullu and met the family members of the deceased to express his grief. Several houses were also swept away in flash floods as the Beas is flowing at a dangerous level, he said, cautioning people against going near rivers and nullahs. Indian Air Force personnel rescued two people stranded at Hurla village near Kullu's Bajaoura by airlifting them using a helicopter, the minister said. Thakur also honoured Indian Air Force Squadron Leader Vipul Goel and his team for rescuing 19 people stranded due to flash floods at Dobi in Kullu district on Sunday. Deputy Commissioner Yunus has sounded a "high alert" in Kullu district where initial loss of property in recent rains has been estimated at over Rs 20 crores. All adventurous sports activities, including paragliding, have been banned in Kullu, district Tourism Development Officer BS Negi said. Meanwhile, Kangra and Kullu deputy commissioners Sandeep Kumar and Yunus, respectively, have ordered the closure of all government and private educational institutions for the second consecutive day on Tuesday, officials said. Hamirpur DC Richa Verma has declared that all government and private schools and anganwaris of the district would remain closed Tuesday. However, colleges in the district would remain open. Meanwhile, four members of a family, Mukesh, his wife Shikha, their son and daughter sustained injuries in Chamba district, Superintendent of Police Monica Bhutunguru said. The Ravi river is flowing at a dangerous level, and people are being evacuated from low-lying areas since Sunday, she added. People residing in low-lying areas, especially in Kangra, Chamba, Kullu and Mandi districts, are being evacuated, officials said. Kangra Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar has alerted officials and people residing in low-lying areas that water would be released from the Pandoh reservoir as per a message from his counterpart in Mandi. The water level in the Pong Dam is running above the danger mark which has led to the Bhakra Beas Management Board's decision to open the floodgate of the dam, an official said. Issuing a flood warning, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) said excess 49,000 cusecs water from the Beas Dam would be released on Tuesday at 3 pm. The water level of the dam already has reached 1,385.56 feet, he added. The Himachal cabinet, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, reviewed the losses and rehabilitation and rescue operations being undertaken in the state. A number of roads in various districts have been blocked due to landslides, and water and electricity supplies have been adversely affected in several areas, the officials added. Most parts of Himachal Pradesh witnessed moderate to heavy rains on Monday too, Shimla MeT centre director Manmohan Singh said. The weatherman further said that light to moderate rainfall would occur at scattered places over the mid and the low hills and at isolated places over the higher reaches of the state on September 25, and thereafter, the weather would almost be dry.

Watch: Rains batter Himachal Pradesh, schools to remain closed in 3 districts

The best quality of air in Delhi in this year was recorded Tuesday as incessant rains washed away pollutants from the air, said authorities.

This is the third time in the year that the quality of air was registered as good and the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 38, which is the lowest for this year, according to the Centre's System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research institute (SAFAR).

An official of Central Pollution Control Board said rains in the last few days washed away pollutants from the air which led to the quality of air improving.

Last Saturday AQI of 48 was recorded, while on July 28 AQI of 43 was recorded.

An AQI in the range of 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor' and 401-500 'severe'.

The PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10 mm) was recorded as 'good' at 37 in Delhi-NCR and 35 in Delhi. The PM2.5 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 2.5 mm) was 19 in Delhi-NCR and 18 in Delhi, according to the CPCB data.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as the rains washed away pollutants from the air, Yamuna river&nbsp;crossed the danger mark and is currently flowing at 205.24 metres, officials said, warning that the level is expected to further increase.

Around 11,19,430 cusecs of water was discharged from Hathani Kund Barrage till 2 PM, the officials said.

The water level is expected to further increase and an alert has been sounded by the authorities, they added.

The danger mark of the Yamuna river is 204.83 metres.

(With inputs from agencies)

The best quality of air in Delhi in this year was recorded Tuesday as incessant rains washed away pollutants from the air, said authorities. This is the third time in the year that the quality of air was registered as good and the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 38, which is the lowest for this year, according to the Centre's System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research institute (SAFAR).

The best quality of air in Delhi in this year was recorded Tuesday as incessant rains washed away pollutants from the air, said authorities. This is the third time in the year that the quality of air was registered as good and the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 38, which is the lowest for this year, according to the Centre's System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research institute (SAFAR). An official of Central Pollution Control Board said rains in the last few days washed away pollutants from the air which led to the quality of air improving. Last Saturday AQI of 48 was recorded, while on July 28 AQI of 43 was recorded. An AQI in the range of 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor' and 401-500 'severe'. The PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10 mm) was recorded as 'good' at 37 in Delhi-NCR and 35 in Delhi. The PM2.5 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 2.5 mm) was 19 in Delhi-NCR and 18 in Delhi, according to the CPCB data. Meanwhile, as the rains washed away pollutants from the air, Yamuna river crossed the danger mark and is currently flowing at 205.24 metres, officials said, warning that the level is expected to further increase. Around 11,19,430 cusecs of water was discharged from Hathani Kund Barrage till 2 PM, the officials said. The water level is expected to further increase and an alert has been sounded by the authorities, they added. The danger mark of the Yamuna river is 204.83 metres. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi records year's best quality of air on Tuesday: Report

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