Another alert for heavy rain in flashflood-hit Mandi as Himachal reels under monsoon fury; 85 *dead, 34 missing

TNR News Network
Shimla:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across the plains and mid-hill regions of Himachal Pradesh. Districts including Una, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur are under a yellow alert for potential heavy rain, with expected precipitation ranging from 5 to 15 cm in hilly areas and 6 to 12 cm in plains. High-altitude areas are also likely to experience scattered rainfall during this period.

The monsoon has unleashed devastation across Himachal Pradesh since its onset on June 20. The state has witnessed relentless heavy rains, with the Mandi district, particularly the Saraj, Thunag, Janjehli and Bagsyad regions, suffering the most severe damage.

Over the past 20 days, the intense downpours have turned hundreds of homes into rubble. Official reports have confirmed the loss of 85 lives while 34 persons remain missing. Torrents from overflowing streams and rivers have swept away several people, whose whereabouts are still unknown. Additionally, the death toll among livestock has reached 881, deepening the crisis for rural families.

431 houses completely destroyed

A total of 431 homes have been completely destroyed, comprising 404 pucca (permanent) and 27 kutcha (temporary) structures. Additionally, 751 pucca and 171 kutcha houses have suffered partial damage. The disaster has also impacted 223 shops and led to the collapse of 877 cattle sheds.

The monsoon season has seen 22 cloudburst incidents and 31 flashfloods across the state. Landslides have occurred at 17 different locations, triggering massive infrastructural and financial damage.

According to official data, the state has incurred losses amounting to Rs 739.12 crore in just 20 days. The Water Resources Department has been hit the hardest, with damages estimated at Rs 402.91 crore. As many as 755 water supply schemes currently remain disrupted.

The Public Works Department has also suffered substantial setbacks, with damages pegged at Rs 318.90 crore. As of now, 174 roads remain blocked due to landslides, damaged retaining walls and eroded surfaces.