Torrential Rain Triggers Widespread Chaos Across Himachal Pradesh

Shimla | August 3 – Himachal Pradesh is reeling under the unrelenting fury of the monsoon, with heavy rainfall since Friday evening leading to flash floods, road closures, and infrastructure damage across multiple districts. Over 400 roads have been shut, including key highways, as landslides and rising river levels disrupt normal life and put residents at risk.

One of the most alarming developments came from the Malana-II Hydropower project, where reports and videos confirmed a partial breach in the cofferdam following flash floods. The force of the water swept away several vehicles, including a dumper truck, a rock breaker, and a car, underlining the scale of the disaster in the Malana valley.

The situation remains grave in Mandi district, where 174 roads have been rendered impassable. The district, which connects the Kullu-Manali region to the rest of the state, has become a critical point of concern. In Chamba, more than 100 roads have been closed, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC).

Beas River Swells, Cracks Appear on Key Bridge

The Beas River and its tributaries have swelled dangerously due to incessant rains. In Hamirpur district, a section of a bridge near Sujanpur Tira has developed cracks, prompting the administration to halt movement across the stretch. Engineers are currently assessing structural stability and possible repair measures.

In Una, the rainfall was especially intense, with the district recording a staggering 260.8 mm, the highest in the state during this spell. Waterlogging has affected major roads and markets, forcing the district administration to shut educational institutions until further notice. Parts of the Chandigarh-Dharamshala National Highway also experienced flooding, hampering vehicular movement and emergency response.

Human and Infrastructure Loss Mounts

Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed widespread destruction. According to state officials, the estimated losses have climbed to ₹1,692 crore. A total of 101 people have died, and 36 remain missing in rain-related incidents. Moreover, around 1,600 houses have been either fully or partially damaged due to flash floods, landslides, and collapsing riverbanks.

The monsoon’s wrath has brought 51 flash floods, 28 cloudbursts, and 45 major landslides to the region so far, turning this year into one of the most destructive monsoon seasons in recent memory.

State Government on High Alert

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri assured that the state government is actively monitoring the evolving situation. “We are on full alert. The district administrations have been directed to prioritise public safety and implement necessary preventive and relief measures immediately,” he said.

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla visited several affected areas in Mandi on Saturday to oversee relief efforts and meet families impacted by the disasters. “The people of Himachal Pradesh have always shown remarkable courage and resilience in the face of adversity. The administration is working with urgency and dedication to provide relief and restore normalcy,” he said.

Relief and Rehabilitation Underway

Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local authorities are deployed in vulnerable areas. Helicopters have been kept on standby for aerial rescues in case road access remains blocked due to landslides or overflowing rivers.

Temporary shelters have been set up in various districts, and food supplies are being provided to displaced families. Meanwhile, meteorological departments have warned of continued heavy rainfall in the coming days, prompting fresh advisories for hilly and low-lying regions.

As Himachal Pradesh endures yet another monsoon onslaught, the state’s resilience and coordinated response will be tested once again — in its villages, valleys, and the mountains that stand battered but not broken.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here