Himachal Pradesh is grappling with the severe impacts of the ongoing monsoon season, and residents are bracing for more showers in the next 48 hours. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reported that as of Sunday morning, 359 roads, including one national highway, are blocked due to the relentless rains. In addition, 145 electricity distribution transformers (DTRs) are down, and 520 water supply schemes have been disrupted.
The cumulative death toll since the monsoon's onset has risen to 219. This includes 112 fatalities in rain-related incidents like landslides, flash floods, and house collapses, and 107 lives lost in road accidents. The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) reports that Mandi is the worst-hit district concerning road connectivity, with 214 routes blocked, followed by Kullu with 91. A landslide at Jhed (Khanag) has blocked National Highway-305, with light motor vehicles being diverted via Kandugad. Kullu has also reported the highest number of power outages, with 50 DTRs disrupted, while Mandi has experienced the most significant hit to its water supply infrastructure, with 367 schemes affected.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted more rainfall across Himachal Pradesh until at least August 12, raising concerns about further disruption and casualties. The weather office in Shimla has issued a yellow warning for heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas on Sunday, August 10. An orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall has been issued for some areas from August 11 to August 14.
Former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur has voiced his concern over the grave situation in Himachal Pradesh following the heavy rainfall of the past 48 hours, which has severely impacted normal life across the state. He noted the closure of the Chandigarh–Manali highway at several locations and the severe impact on the Kullu district, with Bilaspur also suffering heavy losses. Thakur urged the government to ensure that affected residents and tourists receive the necessary assistance and cautioned people to adhere to the administration's instructions.
Since the monsoon's onset on June 20, Himachal Pradesh has incurred losses totaling ₹1,988 crore. The state has witnessed 58 flash floods, 30 cloudbursts, and 53 major landslides. There are reports of cloudbursts in various districts, including Kullu and Rampur, causing flash floods and rising water levels in rivers and streams. The cloudburst at Darshal in Rampur led to a flash flood in the Teklech market, prompting the evacuation of nearby houses.
As the state grapples with the monsoon's fury, authorities are advising residents to remain alert, especially in landslide-prone and riverbank areas. Restoration work is ongoing, but the continuous rainfall and resultant damage pose significant challenges. The SDMA has urged people to take necessary precautions and avoid unnecessary travel.
