Himachal Pradesh: Torrential monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh, leaving at least 37 people dead and causing widespread destruction estimated at over ₹400 crore, according to the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for the state till July 7, warning of continued downpours and potential landslides in the days ahead.
The worst-affected region is Mandi district, where devastation has been severe. Search, rescue, and relief operations are being conducted on a war footing, particularly in the Thunag subdivision, which has been cut off due to road blockages, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted communication.
“Roads are blocked, electricity and water supply have been hit, and vehicle movement has been severely impacted. Senior officials are stationed there. PWD engineers are overseeing road restoration, while the Director of Operations of the Electricity Board and the Chief Engineer of Jal Shakti are also present in Mandi,” said DC Rana, Special Secretary of the State Disaster Management Authority and Revenue Department.
Rising Death Toll and Massive Damage
The state has officially reported damages exceeding ₹400 crore, but officials believe this figure could rise significantly as assessments continue. “We have recorded over ₹400 crore in losses so far, as entered in our system. But the actual damage is likely to be much higher,” said Rana. “Our primary focus at the moment is on search, rescue, and restoration. Detailed damage assessment will take time.”
Of the 37 rain-related deaths reported so far, Mandi alone accounts for a significant number, with 40 people still reported missing. An additional 26 people have died in road accidents during the monsoon season. “A village in Mandi has been devastated. A relief camp has been set up and food packets were air-dropped yesterday by the Indian Air Force,” Rana added.
Infrastructure in Shambles
The impact on infrastructure has been crippling:
- 250 roads are currently closed.
- Over 500 electricity distribution transformers are non-functional.
- Around 700 drinking water schemes have been disrupted.
Emergency services — including local police, Home Guards, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) — are actively involved in rescue and relief work.
Climate Crisis at the Forefront
Rana also pointed to the broader implications of climate change in the region. “These events are a consequence of global warming and climate change. Himachal is not untouched by these impacts,” he stated, emphasizing the need for sustainable development and disaster preparedness.
Life Disrupted in Shimla
In Shimla, the state capital, life has come to a near halt. Schools have been especially impacted, with many classrooms flooded and fears of falling trees looming over students.
“It’s raining heavily. Water is entering our classrooms, our clothes and books are soaked. Our teachers are telling us it’s better to stay at home,” said Tanuja Thakur, a student from Shimla. “Our school is surrounded by trees. There is always a fear that a tree could fall. Thankfully, we are safe for now,” she added.
More Rain Predicted, Authorities on Alert
With the IMD forecasting continued heavy rainfall, the state government remains on high alert. Emergency response teams are working round-the-clock to restore basic services and monitor vulnerable areas prone to landslides and flash floods.
As Himachal Pradesh battles the fury of nature, the coming days are critical. The focus remains firmly on saving lives, restoring access to isolated regions, and rebuilding the shattered infrastructure of the hill state.
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