Monsoon Havoc: Himachal Pradesh's Infrastructure and Lives in Peril

Himachal Pradesh is grappling with severe disruptions caused by torrential monsoon rains, leading to extensive landslides and blockages across the state's infrastructure. The State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) reports that 564 roads are currently obstructed, power distribution is crippled with 525 transformers affected, and 281 water supply systems are down as of September 18, 2025. The grim monsoon season has claimed 419 lives, with 237 attributed to rain-induced incidents like landslides and flash floods, and 182 resulting from road accidents. The state has formally declared itself a disaster-affected region under the Disaster Management Act due to these widespread damages.

Road closures are widespread, affecting two National Highways, NH-03 and NH-503A. Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla are the hardest-hit districts. Mandi bears the brunt of the power distribution disruption with 327 outages, while water supply schemes also struggle in the area, with 180 systems non-operational. The cumulative destruction includes significant losses to public property, notably Rs 1,41,387.8 Lakhs in damages reported by the Public Works Department. Jal Shakti Vibhag and the Power Department have also reported substantial damages of Rs 13,946.69 Lakhs and Rs 2,045.05 Lakhs, respectively.

Property devastation is widespread, with 583 pucca houses and 1,676 kutcha houses partially damaged, while 934 pucca and 2,150 kutcha houses have been completely destroyed. The state is in a state of emergency as it works tirelessly to respond to the ongoing crisis, highlighting the need for an urgent and coordinated disaster management effort. (ANI)