Himachal Pradesh Reels Under Monsoon Fury as Infrastructure Crumbles

Himachal Pradesh is grappling with severe infrastructure setbacks as relentless monsoon rains continue to wreak havoc. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reports that 311 roads are blocked, 221 water supply schemes are disrupted, and 65 power transformers are damaged across the state within the last 24 hours.

Notably, National Highway-70 remains closed in Mandi district due to landslides and heavy rainfall. The morning report from the State Emergency Operation Centre highlights Kullu, Mandi, and Chamba as the most affected districts, with Mandi accounting for 184 of the blocked roads. Tragically, the monsoon season has claimed 137 lives to date, including 77 deaths from landslides, house collapses, and flash floods, and 60 fatalities from weather-exacerbated road accidents.

Restoration efforts are underway, yet fresh disruptions underscore the fragility of infrastructure amid extreme weather stress. Officials caution residents against unnecessary travel in vulnerable regions, urging adherence to local advisories. Meanwhile, Congress MLA Anuradha Rana appeals for a special flood relief package for Lahaul-Spiti, citing inadequate compensation for natural disasters. Rana plans to meet the Chief Minister to advocate for increased financial support for affected residents.

(With inputs from agencies.)