Key Points
- Relentless rains batter Himachal Pradesh, especially Mandi, Kullu, Kangra, and Shimla
- Cloudbursts and landslides cause widespread devastation, road closures, and building collapses
- At least 23 people dead, 7 missing, and major infrastructure disrupted
- Schools and colleges shut in affected districts
- Red alert issued for further heavy rainfall
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh is facing a severe weather emergency as relentless rainfall continues to lash the state, causing widespread destruction and chaos. Mandi district is among the worst affected, with heavy downpours persisting for over 15 hours. The situation has forced the closure of all schools and colleges in the district, and the crucial Chandigarh-Manali Highway remains blocked due to multiple landslides.
Cloudbursts Leave Trail of Destruction, Several Missing
The Karsog area of Mandi has been particularly hard-hit, witnessing several cloudbursts that have triggered flash floods and landslides. Seven people are currently reported missing, and rescue teams have recovered one body so far. In the village of Sayathi, cloudbursts have damaged numerous homes, leaving residents in urgent need of assistance.
Five-Storey Building Collapses in Shimla, No Casualties
In Shimla, a five-storey building dramatically collapsed within seconds. Fortunately, the administration had already evacuated the structure after noticing deep cracks, likely caused by ongoing four-lane road construction nearby. This timely action prevented any casualties or injuries.
Kullu and Kangra Also in Crisis
Kullu district is also grappling with the impact of incessant rain. Landslides and waterlogging have brought traffic to a halt, especially on the Aut-Luhri National Highway (NH-305), where debris and floodwaters have blocked major routes. In Karsha village near the Luhri area, a vehicle was reportedly buried under debris after a sudden flood in a local drain.
Kangra district has also closed its educational institutions as a precaution, with the administration urging residents to stay indoors and avoid riverbanks.
Rivers Swell, Dams Release Water
The Vyas River in Mandi has swollen dangerously due to continuous rainfall and cloudbursts, prompting authorities to release 1.5 lakh cusecs of water from the Pandoh Dam. This sudden release led to panic and waterlogging in the Pandoh market area, further complicating rescue and relief efforts.
Statewide Impact: Roads, Power, and Water Supply Disrupted
According to the State Emergency Operations Center, 259 roads across Himachal Pradesh including 129 in Mandi and 92 in Sirmaur are currently closed due to landslides and flooding. Additionally, 614 power transformers and 130 water supply schemes have been disrupted, leaving many areas without essential services.
Death Toll Rises as Monsoon Wreaks Havoc
Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, rain-related incidents have claimed at least 23 lives across the state. The number is expected to rise as rescue operations continue in the worst-hit areas.
Red Alert Issued, Authorities Urge Caution
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Mandi, Kangra, and Kullu districts, warning of continued heavy rainfall. District administrations are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from rivers and streams, and remain vigilant. Disaster management teams and local authorities are on high alert, closely monitoring the evolving situation.
