Sir — This refers to the editorial, “Flash-flood of problems” (June 19). You are right in observing that nature’s fury is no excuse for human helplessness, as in resorting to deforestation and damming rivers mindlessly, we are causing a global imbalance in nature.
This has landed us into trouble, and that is why the early arrival of the monsoon which was hugely welcome, has displayed its adverse side as well, by claiming dozens of human lives and leaving thousands stranded across several northern States of the country.
Both the country’s political and the financial capitals often bear the brunt of nature’s wrath. A good monsoon favourably impacts our GDP, as agriculture contributes significantly to the country’s economy. As the flash-flood has not wreaked havoc for the first time, preventive steps could have been taken in advance to tackle the eventuality. One hopes adequate lessons have been learned this time around.