Himachal Monsoon Havoc: 199 Lives Lost, Infrastructure in Ruins

The monsoon season has dealt a significant blow to Himachal Pradesh, claiming 199 lives and causing over Rs 1905.5 crore in damages from June 20 to August 6, as per the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). The dead include 108 victims of rain-induced disasters like landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts. Additionally, 91 people have succumbed to road accidents during this period.

The infrastructure crisis is equally concerning. Forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicate continued rainfall until August 12, putting the administration on high alert. Since the onset of the monsoon, 533 roads, including major National Highways NH-3, NH-5, NH-21, and NH-305, are blocked. Alongside, 635 power transformers are out of service, and 266 water supply schemes are disrupted, severely affecting daily life.

Districts such as Mandi, Kullu, and Kangra bear the brunt, with Mandi alone registering 23 rain-related deaths and extensive infrastructure damage. Despite the relentless rainfall, rescue and recovery efforts persist under testing conditions. The SDMA highlights 304 injured in disaster-related incidents and 36 individuals still missing. Economic losses in sectors like transportation, housing, agriculture, and utilities necessitate caution from residents who are advised to stay away from high-risk areas and remain informed through official channels.

(With inputs from agencies.)