The loss of life and assets in Uttarakhand after the sudden floods is most heart wrenching. At least 16 lakh people in four districts of Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Garhwal were affected by the June 16 rains and floods1. The death toll, according to the state's disaster management minister, Yashpal Arya, is estimated to have crossed 5,000. Tens of thousands of people have lost homes and livelihood and losses estimated to be above Rs. 3,000 crore. With potable water almost non- existent, hundreds of people from neighbouring villages have complained of fever and diarrhoea. Heroic efforts of India Armed Forces and members of National Disaster Management Force to rescue lives by reaching out continues to seem not adequate. It is therefore not too early to start thinking about the nature and extent of relief and political economy around it.