Heavy monsoon rains continue to batter Himachal Pradesh, bringing life to a standstill and causing extensive damage across the state. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reported a grim picture on Saturday evening, with the cumulative death toll since June 20 reaching 298. Of these, 152 casualties were directly caused by rain-related incidents such as flash floods, landslides, and house collapses, while another 146 deaths were attributed to road accidents. The remaining fatalities were due to other monsoon-related causes.
The devastation has severely impacted essential services and connectivity. According to the SDMA’s latest figures, a staggering 312 roads are currently blocked, including the crucial National Highway-305. The power sector has also taken a major hit, with 97 electricity transformers damaged, and 51 water supply schemes have been disrupted.
District-wise Breakdown of the Damage
The mountain roads of the state have borne the brunt of the weather. Kullu district reported the highest number of road blockages, with 101 routes, including key sections of NH-305 at Balichowki, Gajadahar, and Feredanallah, rendered impassable. Mandi district followed closely with 160 blocked roads and also faced the most severe power disruptions, with 70 distribution transformers failing.
Other affected districts include:
- Kangra: 21 roads blocked, 6 transformers and 8 water supply schemes disrupted.
- Lahaul & Spiti: 2 water supply schemes and 1 transformer damaged.
- Shimla: 6 roads blocked.
- Sirmaur: 6 roads blocked.
- Una: 11 roads blocked.
- Kinnaur: 2 roads blocked.
- Hamirpur: 5 DTR failures.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) maintaining a heavy rain alert for the next 72 hours, authorities have issued a stark warning about the continued risk of landslides and flash floods. The SDMA has once again appealed to the public to avoid all non-essential travel and remain vigilant, especially in vulnerable areas. The state government is mobilizing all available resources to clear roads, restore power, and ensure the safety of its residents.