Mandi, Himachal Pradesh | July 29, 2025: Heavy monsoon rains have unleashed widespread havoc across Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district since Monday night, claiming at least three lives and leaving one person missing. The incessant downpour has triggered flash floods and multiple landslides, causing unprecedented damage to infrastructure and disrupting daily life.
Leader of Opposition in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Jairam Thakur, expressed grave concern over the unfolding disaster. “Since last night, it has been raining heavily in Mandi. We received information about massive damage in the region. So far, three bodies have been recovered, and one person is missing,” Thakur stated, highlighting the severity of the situation. He added that National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are actively engaged in rescue operations. “Such massive damage has never happened in this region. It is a matter of concern. It is still raining, so I appeal to everyone to follow all precautions.”
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu conveyed his profound sorrow over the tragic cloudburst that primarily impacted Jail Road in Mandi. Describing the incident as “extremely painful,” he affirmed that rescue operations are proceeding on a war footing to locate missing individuals and clear debris.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Sukhu reiterated his condolences to the affected families, stating, “The cloudburst incident on Jail Road in Mandi district is extremely tragic and painful. Two people have lost their lives, and one person is reported missing, with rescue teams working tirelessly to locate them. Several vehicles have also been buried under debris.” He assured that the administration is fully alert and has been instructed to expedite relief and rescue efforts. “I am personally monitoring the situation continuously, and all necessary assistance is being provided immediately. I also extend my gratitude to the local people who are engaged in relief efforts. The state government stands firmly with the affected people during this difficult time. I urge everyone to follow the guidelines issued by the administration and remain vigilant.”
District Commissioner (DC) Apoorv Devgan provided an on-ground update, confirming the fatalities and damage. “The stretch of Jail Road has been affected by heavy rain. Three people have died in the area near Jail Road. One woman is missing. The search operation by the police, NDRF, and Home Guard teams is underway. The roads are also being cleared. Many vehicles have been piled up near the hospital. Casualties have been reported, along with that, many houses have been damaged.” He also mentioned the establishment of a relief camp at Vipasha Sadan, with officials from electricity, PWD, Jal Shakti, and other departments working collaboratively to provide aid.
The continuous heavy rainfall, which began around 11 PM on Monday, has led to a flood-like situation across various parts of Mandi town. The Zonal Hospital Mandi has been severely affected, experiencing excessive water accumulation and overflow from nearby drains, leading to the closure of its main access road. Landslides have blocked key internal roads, further compounding the chaos and endangering residents in vulnerable areas.
Weather Warning: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an advisory warning of continued intense rainfall across several parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Mandi. Moderate to very intense rainfall is expected in Shimla city and adjoining areas in the coming hours. South Shimla, Solan, Chamba, Kangra, Una, Bilaspur, and Hamirpur are also predicted to receive intense showers. Rain is expected to persist over Kullu and Mandi for the next 2-3 hours, while Sirmaur may experience intense spells in the following two hours. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to official advisories.