UKPSC Monthly Current Affairs: August 2025 | Monthly Current Affairs UKPSC - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

Flash Flood & Cloudburst in Uttarkashi (Dharali, Harsil)

On 5 August 2025, a devastating flash flood triggered by a cloudburst struck Dharali in Uttarkashi district, sweeping away homes, hotels, and even part of an army camp. Rescue efforts are still ongoing amid massive destruction. 

Key Points:

• Casualties: 4–5 confirmed dead; approx. 100 missing, including soldiers. 
• Damage: Over 50 hotels and 40–50 houses destroyed; army infrastructure and helipad affected. 
• Rescue operations: Mobilized Indian Army’s Ibex Brigade, NDRF, SDRF, drones, tracker dogs, heavy machinery, and air support.
• Government response: CM Dhami directed relief operations immediately, coordinating with central agencies and expediting aid. 

Static Background:

• Region known for fragile Himalayan terrain and high vulnerability to cloudbursts and landslides.
• Uttarakhand frequently affected by monsoon-induced disasters.

Heavy Rainfall Alerts, Landslides, and River Overflow

Late August saw heavy rainfall across Uttarakhand, prompting orange alerts in Dehradun, Uttarkashi, and Bageshwar; landslides and damage ensued. Simultaneously, the Alaknanda River surged dangerously close to flooding the Dhari Devi Temple. 

Key Points:

• IMD issued orange alert; schools closed in Dehradun and Uttarkashi; homes and roads damaged (e.g., 2 houses in Chamoli destroyed). 
• Local authorities issued flood warnings near Dhari Devi temple, reminiscent of past tragedies. 

Static Background:

• Dhari Devi Temple previously linked with major floods in 2013; symbolic and strategic sensitivity surrounding the site.

CM Orders Relocation & Disaster Vigilance

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami instructed relocation of residents from flood-prone riverbanks and called for proactive monitoring and infrastructure readiness.

Key Points:

• Evacuations initiated, encroachment on riverbanks discouraged; irrigation and PWD tasked to monitor dam water releases.
• Relief efforts prioritized due to expected surge in Char Dham pilgrims; veterinary services and debris clearance mobilized. 

Static Background:

• Char Dham pilgrimage draws millions; road and civic infrastructure key to disaster handling in high-altitude regions.

RTI Reveals Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB) Staff Shortage

An RTI disclosure revealed that UKPCB operates with just 37% of its sanctioned strength, impairing environmental oversight in a fragile ecological zone. 

Key Points:

• Only 48 staff employed against a sanctioned 130; regional offices (Dehradun, Kashipur, Roorkee, Haldwani) severely understaffed—just two field staff each. 
• Retirements since 2000 have not been replaced; outsourcing and deputation used as temporary remedies. New service rules pending. 

Static Background:

• The board is critical for preventing environmental degradation in a state known for its biodiversity and hydroelectric projects.

Uttarakhand Goes 'Hill to Hi-Tech'

On 12 August 2025, CM Dhami launched the ‘Digital Uttarakhand’ initiative, introducing AI governance tools and smart digital platforms. 

Key Points:

• Launched:
  • Digital Uttarakhand App – unified govt service access.
  • 66 secure websites (S3WaaS platform).
  • GIS-based urban waste tracking.
  • AI-enhanced CM Helpline (1905).
  • Encroachment monitoring app.
• Comprises part of the “Hill to Hi-Tech” push toward inclusive e-governance.

Static Background:

• Move aligns with Digital India mission and trends in smart state governance.

‘Direct Injection Water Source Recharge Scheme’ Launched

On 19 August 2025, Uttarakhand launched a water recharge initiative in collaboration with SRHU to combat water scarcity. 

Key Points:

• Aimed at rejuvenating ground water sources via sustainable recharge methods.
• Involvement: Vidhan Sabha Bhawan ceremony alongside Assembly Speaker and CM in Bhararisain.

Static Background:

• Groundwater depletion is a chronic issue in Himalayan terrains due to hydroelectric projects and uneven monsoon

10% Reservation for Ex-Agniveers

Uttarakhand government introduced a horizontal reservation of 10% for Ex-Agniveers in Group C uniformed services. 

Key Points:

• Ensures preferential access to public service roles for former military recruits under Agnipath.
• Highlights focus on veterans' welfare.

Static Background:

• Reservation policy in India includes vertical and horizontal designations; this is an example of policy inclusion for defense personnel.

2024–25 Futsal Club Championship Held in Rudrapur

From 3–18 August 2025, Rudrapur hosted the AIFF’s National Futsal Club Championship. 

Key Points:

• 17 teams participated; Goal Hunterz FC won by defeating Bhawanipore 4–2.
• Top scorer: Nikhil Mali with 16 goals.

Static Background:

• Showcases Uttarakhand’s growing profile in hosting national sports events.

Rishikesh–Karnaprayag Railway Line Progress

A strategic multi-tunnel broad-gauge railway line under construction—feeder Ato Char Dham Rail project.

Key Points:

• 126 km line with 12 stations; 70% work completed (as of early 2025).
• Aims to reduce travel time from 8 to 2.5 hours; significant for connectivity and border infrastructure.

Static Background:

• Vital for geo-strategic and pilgrimage access development in Uttarakhan

Uttarakhand Local Government Elections (2025)

State municipal elections held; results reflect a strong BJP presence. 

Key Points:

• Turnout: ~65.41% across municipalities.
• BJP won 10 municipal corporations, 17 municipal councils, 15 area councils; Congress marginal. Independents had strong showing too.

Static Background:

• Local body elections are crucial for decentralised governance, especially in diverse terrains like Uttarakhand.