Himachal Monsoon Havoc: Key Infrastructure and Lives Disrupted

The relentless monsoon rains in Himachal Pradesh have caused significant disruptions to essential services, leaving the state in a state of disrepair. As of 10:00 AM on August 2, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) reports that a daunting 383 roads remain blocked. Furthermore, 747 distribution transformers (DTRs) are impaired, and 249 water supply schemes have been incapacitated due to damage triggered by the persistent rains.

The calamity has sharply intensified compared to previous days, with several national highways, including NH-305, NH-505, NH-21, and NH-03, rendered impassable by landslides and debris. Inaccessible roads in Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, and Una districts are further complicating rescue and repair operations.

The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) confirmed that 173 lives have been lost in rain-related incidents and road accidents since the monsoon began. Among these, 95 fatalities are attributed directly to rain-induced events like landslides and floods, while 78 occurred in road mishaps due to treacherous conditions.

The worst-affected regions are witnessing severe damage to public utilities: Chamba sees 89 roads blocked, and 171 DTRs and 93 water schemes disrupted. Kullu reports 67 roadblocks, including national highways, and 188 power feeders down. Mandi faces 181 road blockages, 82 power lines down, and 186 water schemes affected. Una suffers from 3 roads blocked, 205 DTRs down, and 26 water schemes disrupted.

Landslides have also forced the closure of critical highway sections in tribal regions like Lahaul-Spiti, where NH-505 near Chhatru is closed. NH-305 in Kullu faces similar issues at Jhed (Khanag). Authorities have made temporary restorations to some irrigation and sewerage schemes, but ongoing adverse weather conditions pose challenges for complete normalization. The SDMA is actively coordinating with local administrations for relief and restoration efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)