Himachal Pradesh has been hit by a double tragedy, with a fatal road accident near Rohtang Pass and widespread devastation from flash floods. The state is grappling with the aftermath of these events, as rescue operations continue and authorities work to restore normalcy.

Taxi Accident Near Rohtang Pass

A devastating incident occurred near Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, where a taxi plunged into a deep ravine, resulting in the death of four people and critical injuries to one. The accident took place at Rahni Nala amidst foggy conditions, which may have impaired visibility and contributed to the vehicle veering off the road. Skid marks at the scene suggest the driver lost control.

The deceased have been identified as Ranjit Singh (31) and Harvinder Singh (27), both from Hoshiarpur in Punjab, Narendra Kumar (34), the driver from Simsa in Kullu, and Dima Ram (32) from Karsog. Ravi Kumar (24), also from Hoshiarpur, is in critical condition. All the passengers, including the driver, were reportedly employed at a hotel in the Manali area.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his grief over the accident, calling it "heart-wrenching". He has directed the local administration to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care.

Flash Floods Ravage Himachal Pradesh

Simultaneously, Himachal Pradesh is battling severe flash floods triggered by heavy downpours and cloudbursts. The incessant rains have caused widespread damage, with reports of 23 flash floods, 19 cloudbursts, and 16 landslides. The state has suffered an estimated loss of over ₹573 crore.

Mandi district is one of the worst-hit areas, with numerous roads blocked and water supply schemes disrupted. As of July 6, 183 roads in Mandi remained closed. Many villages have been cut off due to damaged roads and swollen rivers. The deluge has swept away roads, bridges, and water mills.

The State Disaster Management Authority reports that the cumulative death toll due to monsoon-related disasters has reached 78. This includes fatalities from flash floods, drowning, electrocution, accidental falls, landslides, lightning strikes, and snake bites. Mandi district has reported the highest number of rain-related deaths at 17, followed by Kangra with 11.

Rescue operations are underway, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) utilizing drones to search for missing people. Emergency road repairs were carried out to rescue 63 tourists from Punjab, Haryana, UP, Tamil Nadu, and New Delhi who were stranded in Seraj Valley. Relief camps have been set up to provide shelter and assistance to those displaced by the floods.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued warnings for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning. A red alert was issued for several districts, including Mandi, Kangra, and Sirmaur.

Amid criticism over her delayed response, Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut visited the affected areas. She stated that despite lacking an official team or personal funds, she felt compelled to visit as a Himachali and Pahari. She defended her initial absence, explaining that former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur advised her to wait until the roads reopened.