Monsoon Ravages Himachal Pradesh: Roads Blocked, Lives Disrupted

Himachal Pradesh is grappling with the harsh impacts of relentless monsoon rains that have severely disrupted public utilities and endangered human lives. Official reports from the State Emergency Operation Centre indicate that as of Tuesday, 357 roads, including a major National Highway, along with 182 power distribution transformers and 179 water supply schemes, have succumbed to the continuous downpour and consequent disasters.

The monsoon season's fatality count has risen alarmingly, according to the State Disaster Management Authority. Since June 20, the region has mourned the loss of 170 individuals, with 94 lives claimed by rain-induced calamities such as landslides, flash floods, and lightning strikes. Road accidents have claimed 76 lives during this period. Mandi emerges as the epicenter of distress, with 259 road blockages, 172 transformer breakdowns, and 47 water supply disruptions, alongside recording the highest death toll from both monsoon-induced incidents and traffic accidents.

Communities remain isolated by landslides and flash floods, causing further devastation to homes, livestock, and crops. Restoration efforts led by local authorities, with assistance from NDRF, SDRF, and police, are in full force. Affected residents are advised to refrain from unnecessary travel and to remain vigilant as further rainfall is expected. In Mandi district, recent torrents have wreaked havoc, especially in the Jail Road area. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu described the damage, labeling it akin to a cloudburst disaster, and assured prompt rescue operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)