Shimla: The ongoing Himachal Pradesh monsoon has unleashed widespread devastation across the hill state, claiming the lives of at least 63 people and leaving over 40 others missing, as per official estimates. Torrential rains triggered deadly landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, primarily impacting districts like Mandi, Shimla, Kangra, Solan, Sirmaur, and Hamirpur.
Roads, Water Supply, and Power Infrastructure Severely Hit
The disaster has severely impacted the state’s infrastructure:
- Over 500 roads have been rendered unusable due to landslides and debris flow.
- Around 600 electricity transformers have been damaged, disrupting power supply across multiple areas.
- Nearly 800 drinking water schemes have also been affected, causing acute water shortages.
In Mandi district, which remains the worst affected, multiple bridges and roads have collapsed. Authorities report that power and water supply are disrupted in both urban and rural belts, compounding the hardships of thousands of families.
Massive Rescue Efforts Underway
The state government has deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) units along with local police, home guards, and civil authorities. Indian Air Force helicopters have also been pressed into service for airlifting stranded individuals, especially in remote mountainous terrain.
Temporary shelters, food packets, and emergency cash relief are being provided to displaced residents. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu assured that all necessary resources are being mobilized to restore normalcy.
More Rain Forecasted, Red Alerts Issued
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued fresh red and orange alerts for several districts in Himachal Pradesh for the coming days. With more heavy to very heavy rainfall expected, the threat of further landslides and flash floods looms large.
Citizens have been advised to avoid travel in hilly areas and to stay indoors unless necessary. Tourists planning visits to the region are urged to postpone their travel.
A Stark Reminder of Climate Vulnerability
This year’s Himachal Pradesh monsoon devastation underscores the fragile ecological balance of the region, and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change. Environmental experts have once again raised concerns about rampant construction, deforestation, and lack of sustainable urban planning in the hills.
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