Flash Flood Strands Hundreds in Kinnaur: ITBP Leads Daring Rescue

A sudden flash flood has severely affected the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra route in Tangling, washing away a significant section of the trail and leaving hundreds of pilgrims stranded. In response, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), supported by the 17th Battalion, has successfully rescued 413 pilgrims employing a rope-based traverse crossing method, as reported by an official.

Following a distress call from the Kinnaur District Administration this morning, ITBP and NDRF teams were mobilized once more, determined to continue the rescue operations. The vanguard of the operation comprises one Gazetted Officer, four Subordinate Officers, and 29 other ITBP ranks, coordinated with a 14-member NDRF team. ITBP has reaffirmed its commitment to aiding the district administration and collaborating agencies in ongoing relief activities.

Amid these efforts, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a weather warning at 6:30 AM, predicting light to moderate rainfall across Himachal Pradesh. However, regions like Bilaspur, Solan, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Mandi are bracing for numerous intense rain spells in the coming hours. Light to moderate rainfall is also expected in Chamba, Kangra, Hamirpur, Una, Lahul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and Kullu.

The relentless rainfall in Shimla has brought routine life to a standstill, leading to the widespread closure of educational institutions. Himachal Pradesh has experienced 194 fatalities and staggering financial losses exceeding Rs 1,85,251.98 lakh during this monsoon season, as detailed in a report by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA).

The SDMA's comprehensive report has documented severe human and property losses statewide. According to the report, rain-induced events directly caused 108 deaths. Incidents included six deaths from landslides, nine from flash floods, 17 from cloudbursts, 20 from drowning, one death from fire, 11 from snake bites, seven from electrocution, and 37 from other causes. The overall death toll incorporates 86 road fatalities recorded over the same duration, notably with Mandi reporting 19 and Shimla 12.

Furthermore, the report underlines the severe destruction of public and private properties. Estimated losses to private estates reach Rs 97,129.91 lakh and public property damages at Rs 63,341.15 lakh. A report from the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) highlights housing devastation, with 194 residences fully destroyed and 301 partially damaged. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)