The rain God has played havoc with North India. Heavy rains and floods have wreaked destruction in Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab and Uttarakhand, with the death toll crossing 50. The disaster management teams have had to work round the clock and at places the IAF has had to step in.

Himachal remains the worst affected with the majority of people dying and hundreds, including tourists stranded, several bridges and houses washed away and roads caving in. In Punjab and Haryana, the farmers have been the worst hit with wheat and paddy crops damaged. The IMD has said the situation is likely to improve.

In Delhi, the Yamuna breached the 45-year high with thousands of people evacuated to safer locations. While authorities focus on providing relief, more needs to be done as rain patterns over the past decade have shown a distinct change.

Government, both at the Centre and States must heed the warning signals and ensure a proactive policy against climate vagaries. Other than town planning, the fragile geology of Himalayan States must be respected, and the mindless excavation of hills halted, or at least expert opinion be taken. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine.