Mandi (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 5: Amid massive destruction and loss of life caused by rain-triggered flash floods across Himachal Pradesh, locals in Mandi have stepped up to help by distributing ration kits with essentials like rice and wheat to affected families.
Raj Kumar Thakur, President of Chail Chowk Vyapar Mandal, told, “All the traders of the Chail Chowk Vyapar Mandal decided to help those who have lost their homes or road connectivity. We have distributed ration kits to 110 families, each including 10 kg of rice, 10 kg of wheat, oil, and other food items to bring relief. This ration will last for 10 to 15 days.”
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday announced a series of relief measures, including Rs 5,000 per month as rental assistance for families displaced by the disaster. After a high-level review meeting in Shimla, CM Sukhu said the state is facing a “disaster like a war.”
“We reviewed the entire situation in the state caused by the current natural disaster. After evaluating it, we have decided that families who are staying in relief shelters and find rental accommodation in their villages will be given Rs 5,000 per month by the Himachal Pradesh government,” said Sukhu.
The Chief Minister also assured that the government would ensure continuous food and ration supplies for affected families.
According to CM Sukhu, since June 20, approximately 69 people have lost their lives (43 due to heavy rains and 26 in road accidents), 37 remain missing, and 110 have been injured. The estimated damage stands at around Rs 700 crore.
Heavy rainfall continues to batter Mandi district, severely disrupting normal life. Many houses have been damaged, and vehicles washed away due to cloudbursts and relentless downpours. A local resident shared, “Everything got washed away after a cloudburst. We are now staying at our relatives’ house.”
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a rain alert for the state until July 7.
According to the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority and the Revenue Department, damages exceeding Rs 400 crore have been recorded due to incessant monsoon rains. Search, rescue, and relief operations remain underway, especially in the worst-hit Mandi district, where multiple roads are blocked and essential services disrupted. (ANI)