New Delhi, Aug 15 (IANS) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Sunday condoled the deaths of people in the devastating flash floods caused by sudden cloudburst and said the government ‘will do everything’ possible for rehabilitation of the affected people.

‘A few days back, many precious lives were lost in Laddakh due to a cloud burst. I convey my heart felt condolences to the family members and other near and dear ones of those who have perished.

Speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort, Manmohan Singh said: ‘In this hour of grief, the whole country stands with the people of Laddakh. It is my assurance that the central government will do everything possible for rehabilitation of the affected people,’ he said.

Flash floods wrecked and ravaged the Leh town in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region. About 183, including five foreigners, have died, while 200 people were still missing.

The cloudburst occurred last Friday midnight at Choglamsar village, which is situated above Leh town, causing flash floods and mudslides that washed away government offices, paramilitary camps and residential homes. Among the worst hit were the Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), many local hotels and shops.