Torrential monsoon rains have unleashed unprecedented havoc in Himachal Pradesh, resulting in a grim death toll of 72, with fears mounting as 31 people remain missing. The relentless downpour has crippled infrastructure, blocking 269 roads and disrupting essential services across the state. Mandi district has been the hardest hit, bearing the brunt of flash floods and cloudbursts that have swept away homes and critical infrastructure.
The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) reported that Mandi faces the worst of the destruction, with 200 roads blocked. The district has also reported the highest number of damaged electricity transformers and disrupted water supply schemes, with 236 and 278 respectively out of service. The disruption of essential services has plunged several areas into crisis, with Thunag in Mandi facing a severe water shortage after floods washed away vital machinery and water pipes. Anju Sharma, Chief Engineer of the Jal Shakti Department, visited the area and reported that all 81 panchayats in the constituency have been affected.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police, and army working to locate those still missing. However, the challenging terrain and damaged infrastructure have severely hampered efforts. A red alert has been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), warning of continued heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning, particularly in Mandi, Kangra, and Sirmaur districts. An orange alert is in place for several other districts, including Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Shimla, and Solan.
The extensive damage has resulted in an estimated loss of ₹541 crore, according to the SEOC. However, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu indicated that the actual losses could be closer to ₹700 crore as assessments continue. The government has initiated measures to provide relief, including distributing food kits via mules in inaccessible villages.
The disaster has prompted calls for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness. Officials have pointed to the impact of climate change on the region's fragile ecology, emphasizing the need for sustainable development practices. The administration has urged residents to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel as monsoon activity is expected to continue.
