Continuous rainfall has wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh over the past four days, leading to the closure of over 190 roads across the state. The local weather office has issued a ‘yellow’ alert, predicting heavy rains till August 7.
According to the state emergency operation centre, 191 roads have been closed for vehicular traffic. The breakdown includes 79 roads in Mandi, 38 in Kullu, 35 in Chamba, 30 in Shimla, five in Kangra and two each in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts.
The rains have also disrupted 294 transformers and 120 water supply schemes, increasing the hardships of the residents. The Himachal Roads Transport Corporation (HRTC) has suspended bus services on 82 of its 3,612 routes, said a senior HRTC official.
Moderate to heavy showers have lashed various parts of the state, with Jogindernagar recording the highest rainfall at 85 mm since Friday evening, followed by Gohar (80 mm), Shilaroo (76.4 mm), Poanta Sahib (67.2 mm), Palampur (57.2 mm), Dharamshala (55.6 mm) and Chopal (52 mm).
Rain-related incidents have claimed 77 lives since the onset of the monsoon on June 27, resulting in losses amounting to Rs 655 crore. Despite ongoing rescue efforts, there remains no trace of the 45 persons who have gone missing amid the devastating weather conditions.
