Heavy rain, storm batter Chandigarh: 3 children injured as roof collapses, trees uprooted 

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chandigarh recorded intermittent rain along with thunderstorms over the past 24 hours. Mist and haze were also observed during different periods, followed by spells of rain and thundershowers through the early morning hours. Weather department officers said wind speeds picked up during the storm, leading to widespread damage.

In another incident, a section of the false ceiling collapsed at GMCH, Sector 32, raising concerns over infrastructure safety. However, no injuries were reported as the area was unoccupied at the time.

Tree falls on a moving two-wheeler

A massive tree that fell during heavy rain and strong winds in Phase 7, Mohali, on January 23, bringing down three electricity poles onto a parked car |
Express photo by Jasbir Malhi

Strong winds uprooted several trees across Chandigarh and Mohali. In Sector 32, a tree fell on a moving two-wheeler, injuring the rider. In Sector 35-B and parts of Mohali, trees fell on houses and roads, damaging vehicles and causing traffic snarls. On the Chandigarh–Mohali road near Sectors 39 and 40, multiple trees fell simultaneously, severely affecting vehicular movement.

Power supply was also disrupted in areas such as Tribune Colony, Sector 29, after trees brought down electricity poles. Civic teams were deployed to clear fallen trees and restore services.

Alert for thunderstorms, hail

The weather department has issued an alert for thunderstorms and possible hail in parts of the region, advising residents to remain cautious as unstable weather conditions are likely to persist.

Meanwhile, residents alleged that the recent spell of rain and strong winds once again exposed Chandigarh’s lack of administrative preparedness, turning the ‘City Beautiful’ into a picture of disorder.

“Fallen tree branches blocked roads across several sectors, disrupting traffic and delaying emergency services, including ambulances. Residents have repeatedly warned authorities about the need for scientific pruning and regular tree audits ahead of monsoon and storm seasons, but little action has followed beyond routine assurances. Despite memoranda submitted by RWAs highlighting vulnerable trees, accountability remains unclear, with no department owning responsibility for maintenance failures,” R K Garg, a Chandigarh resident and president of Second Innings Association, said.

Protecting greenery must go hand in hand with public safety; without planning and clear responsibility, citizens remain at risk after every storm, he said.