Flash Floods and Landslides in Himachal: 69 Dead, 37 Missing Amid Heavy Rain

Himachal Pradesh is facing a severe natural disaster due to relentless monsoon rains that have triggered flash floods, landslides, and widespread destruction across several districts. Between June 20 and July 3, at least 69 people have died, 110 have been injured, and 37 are reported missing in rain-related incidents. The state has witnessed record-breaking rainfall, especially in the last 24 hours, leading to blocked roads, disrupted water supply systems, and severe damage to infrastructure.

Heavy rains have been reported across the state, including 133.3 mm in Pachhad, 92 mm in Barsar, 60 mm in Ghanahatti, and 55 mm in Una and Baijnath. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in districts such as Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur. Rain is also expected in Hamirpur, Mandi, and Kangra, with alerts in place across most areas of the state until July 9, excluding Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti on July 6 and 7.

Mandi district has suffered the worst damage, with 14 deaths and 31 people missing. Over 150 homes, 106 cattle sheds, and 14 bridges have been destroyed. More than 246 roads in the region remain blocked. On June 30, a sudden flash flood devastated Thunag and nearby villages like Deji, Lam, and Jurh, destroying over 200 structures. Roads, electricity, water supply, and mobile connectivity have been cut off in these areas. Rescue teams are facing difficulties accessing the affected zones due to the challenging terrain and ongoing rain.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local administration are actively engaged in search and rescue operations across affected regions like Mandi, Gohar, Karsog, and Thunag. So far, 246 ration kits have been air-dropped, and several relief camps have been set up. However, access remains a significant challenge. For instance, reaching Thunag requires a three-hour trek on foot, with a helipad halfway serving as a drop point for government aid.

A five-storey building collapse near Shimla has led to an official probe. Authorities are investigating potential links to the nearby Kaithlighat-Dhalli four-lane road project. The inquiry is being led by the Additional District Magistrate (Law and Order), and a report is expected soon, according to Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap.

In addition to human casualties, the disaster has affected 784 water supply schemes and damaged 404 transformers. The state has also witnessed 10 cloudbursts, three flash floods, and one major landslide in Mandi alone. More than 164 cattle have died, and in Una district, 10,000 chickens perished in a flooded poultry farm.

Actor and Mandi Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut described the situation as heartbreaking. In a post on X, she expressed her concern and intent to visit the flood-affected areas of Seraj and Mandi. She mentioned being advised by opposition leader Jairam Thakur to wait until connectivity is restored and assured that she would reach the area as soon as possible once approval is granted.

The ongoing crisis highlights the increasing severity of monsoon-related disasters in Himachal Pradesh, raising urgent questions about climate resilience, infrastructure planning, and disaster preparedness in the region.