With heavy rainfall alerts rising in the Himalayas, fragile geographies, inadequate planning, and climate extremes are exposing deep vulnerabilities. Amid official efforts and emerging citizen initiatives, questions remain about whether hill towns are truly better prepared? Or are they still caught in a cycle of risk and recovery?

A small town on shaky ground—Joshimath is sinking, and its residents are caught in a nightmare. Despite early warnings dating back decades, cracks now split homes apart, forcing evacuations and sparking protests. Locals blame unchecked construction, ignored reports, and the burden of rapid urbanisation. As authorities scramble to respond, the question looms: can Joshimath be saved, or is it too late to turn the tide?