Himachal Pradesh is grappling with the aftermath of relentless rainfall that has claimed the lives of at least 37 people and caused extensive damage estimated at over Rs 400 crore.
According to the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, the toll may rise further as search and rescue operations continue in the worst-affected regions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a rain alert for the state, predicting continued heavy showers until July 7.
Mandi district, particularly the Thunag subdivision, has been hit hardest. Roads remain inaccessible, while power and water supply have been severely disrupted. In Mandi alone, over 40 people are reported missing, prompting the establishment of relief camps and emergency air-drops of food by the Indian Air Force.
DC Rana, Special Secretary of the State Disaster Management Authority, stated in a briefing, “Losses recorded in our system have crossed Rs 400 crore, though the actual damage is likely much higher.
Our immediate focus is on search, rescue, and restoring essential services.
” Engineers from the PWD, Electricity Board, and Jal Shakti Department are actively involved in restoration work.
Across the state, over 250 roads are blocked, 500 electricity transformers are out of order, and around 700 drinking water schemes have been impacted. An additional 26 deaths have been reported due to road accidents during this period.
In Shimla, the incessant rainfall has severely disrupted daily life. Schools have been flooded, and students have raised safety concerns.
“Water is entering our classrooms; our clothes and books are wet. Our teachers have advised us to stay home,” said Tanuja Thakur, a student. She added that the fear of tree collapses around the school remains constant.
Authorities, including the police, Home Guards, SDRF, NDRF, and local administration, are on high alert and continuing rescue operations across vulnerable regions. Officials have also acknowledged the broader climate implications, with DC Rana stating,
“These events are a consequence of global warming and climate change. Himachal is not untouched by these impacts.”
