Himachal Pradesh is facing severe devastation due to incessant rainfall, with over 37 lives lost and property damage exceeding ₹400 crore, according to the State Disaster Management Authority. The death toll is expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue in the worst-hit regions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended a heavy rain alert for the state until July 7, citing persistent and intense showers.
Mandi Emerges as Epicentre of Destruction
The Mandi district, particularly the Thunag subdivision, is reeling under the worst conditions, with 40 people reported missing and vital infrastructure—roads, electricity, and water supply—severely disrupted.
“We have recorded over ₹400 crore in losses so far, as entered in our system. But the actual damage is likely to be much higher. Our primary focus at the moment is on search, rescue, and restoration,”
— DC Rana, Special Secretary, State Disaster Management Authority.
Relief camps have been set up, and the Indian Air Force air-dropped food packets in the most inaccessible zones. Senior engineers from PWD, Electricity Board, and Jal Shakti Department are working on restoration efforts.
“A village in Mandi has been devastated,” Rana confirmed.
Widespread Damage Across the State
- 250+ roads remain blocked
- 500+ electricity transformers down
- 700+ drinking water schemes disrupted
The relentless rains have also triggered 26 road accident deaths in addition to the 37 fatalities due to direct rain-related causes.
“These events are a consequence of global warming and climate change. Himachal is not untouched by these impacts,”
— DC Rana
Schools in Shimla Struggle Amid Downpour
In Shimla, daily life has been thrown into chaos. Many schools are flooded, and students are at risk.
“It’s raining heavily. Water is entering our classrooms, our clothes and books are soaked. Our teachers are telling us it’s better to stay at home,”
— Tanuja Thakur, student from Shimla.
“Our school is surrounded by trees. There is always a fear that a tree could fall. Thankfully, we are safe for now.”
State on High Alert
Search and rescue efforts are being led by a coordinated task force involving the local administration, police, Home Guards, SDRF, and central forces including the NDRF.
Authorities remain on high alert as rain continues to lash the region, raising fears of landslides, flash floods, and further disruption in the hill state.