Himachal battles deadly monsoon: 37 dead, over 250 roads blocked and several people still missing in Mandi
PTC Web Desk: Himachal Pradesh remains in the grip of a severe monsoon crisis, with torrential rains claiming over 37 lives and crippling daily life across the hilly state. The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) has estimated property damage worth over Rs 400 crore, though officials fear the real toll could be much higher as search and rescue missions continue. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended a rain alert across the state till July 7, forecasting sustained heavy downpours in the coming days.
Among the worst-affected regions is Mandi district, particularly the Thunag subdivision, where access has been cut off due to road blockages and major disruptions in electricity and water supply.
DC Rana, Special Secretary of the Revenue Department and Disaster Management Authority, addressing the media, said: "We’ve logged losses over Rs 400 crore in our system, but ground reports suggest that actual damage may be far more. Right now, our full attention is on rescue, relief, and restoring essential services."
In Mandi alone, over 40 residents have been reported missing, with a village reportedly wiped out by the floods. Relief camps have been established, and the Indian Air Force has air-dropped food supplies in stranded areas. Senior officials and engineers from departments such as PWD, Electricity Board, and Jal Shakti are stationed in the affected zones to expedite restoration.
So far, 37 deaths have been linked to rain-related mishaps like landslides and house collapses. In addition, 26 deaths have occurred due to road accidents since the rains began. Statewide, over 250 roads are blocked, more than 500 power transformers are defunct, and nearly 700 drinking water schemes have taken a hit.
Calling attention to the broader crisis, DC Rana pointed to the role of climate shifts, saying: "The scale and frequency of such disasters point to climate change. Himachal is not immune to the impacts of global warming."
In Shimla, the downpour has severely disrupted routine life. Schools have been inundated with water, forcing students and parents to reconsider attending classes.
Rescue efforts are being carried out by a joint force comprising local administration, police, Home Guards, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). All authorities are on high alert as the weather continues to pose threats, and more rain is expected in the coming days.
- With inputs from agencies
