cloudburst-hits-spiti-village-4-houses-damaged

A cloudburst hit Khurik village in the Spiti Valley of Lahaul and Spiti district, leading to sudden flashfloods that damaged four houses. Though there was no loss of human life, a calf died after getting buried under the debris. The incident left villagers scared and caused major disruption in the area.

 

Eyewitnesses said the cloudburst was caused by a 20-minute downpour, which sent torrents of water, mud and debris rushing through the village. Panic spread as frightened villagers screamed and ran to warn one another while floodwaters surged. The ground floors of four houses were filled with thick muck and debris.

 

Shikha Simtia, SDM Kaza and Additional Deputy Commissioner, confirmed that there was no loss of life. “Flashfloods caused by a cloudburst filled the ground floors of four houses in Khurik village with debris. The damage is being assessed and financial assistance will be provided to the affected families accordingly,” she said.

 

Local MLA Anuradha Rana said flashfloods were also reported near Khurik and Rangrik villages in Lahaul and Spiti district. She said, “The officials of all departments concerned under the leadership of the SDM have reached Khurik village. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) machinery has also been dispatched to clear debris from the villages. The administration has been directed to immediately assess the damage and carry out relief and rescue operations.” Rana urged residents to stay calm and assured them that the government is standing firmly with them during this crisis.

 

Expressing concern over the situation, former MLA Ravi Thakur said he had spoken to the SDM and urged her to provide quick relief to the affected. He also asked the state government to properly assess the damage and give suitable compensation to those affected.

 

Former minister Ram Lal Markanda also stressed the need for a prompt government response to support the villagers with financial aid. Relief work is ongoing and the district authorities along with BRO teams are on the ground helping clear the debris and restore normalcy.