Monsoon Fury in Himachal Pradesh: Roads Blocked, Lives at Risk

Himachal Pradesh remains under the grip of relentless monsoon rains, leading to significant disruptions. According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), 359 roads, including a national highway, are closed, 145 electricity transformers are down, and 520 water supply schemes have been disrupted as of Sunday morning.

The monsoon death toll in the state has tragically reached 219. This includes 112 fatalities from rain-related disasters such as landslides, flash floods, and house collapses, with another 107 lives lost in road accidents, according to SDMA data.

District reports from the State Emergency Operation Centre reveal that Mandi is the hardest hit in terms of road connectivity, with 214 routes blocked. Kullu follows with 91 blocked routes. A landslide has obstructed National Highway-305 at Jhed (Khanag), redirecting light vehicles through Kandugad. Kullu also faced the most power outages, with 50 transformers affected, while Mandi reported severe water infrastructure damage, with 367 schemes down.

Authorities are advising residents to stay alert as heavy rain is expected in several districts over the next 48 hours. The India Meteorological Department warns of continuing rainfall until at least August 12, raising fears of more damages and potential casualties.

A senior official from the SDMA stated that the extent of this season's monsoon damage is unprecedented. Despite ongoing restoration efforts, the public is urged to maintain vigilance, especially in areas prone to landslides and near riverbanks.

(With inputs from agencies.)