Himachal Pradesh is grappling with a severe monsoon season, as the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reports 409 deaths since June 20, caused by rain-related disasters and road accidents this year.
The latest cumulative loss report issued by the Revenue Department’s Disaster Management Cell confirmed that 229 deaths were directly linked to rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, drowning, electrocution, and house collapses. Additionally, 180 people lost their lives in road accidents caused by slippery roads, landslide blockages, and poor visibility during incessant rains.
The disaster management authority also reported 473 people injured and 41 missing across various districts. The devastation has not been limited to human lives. Over 2,100 animals perished, while 26,955 poultry birds were lost.
The infrastructure damage has been severe. A total of 5,164 houses were completely destroyed, and 2,743 were partially damaged. In addition, 899 shops, 2,001 cowsheds, and 4,297 labour huts were wrecked. Public infrastructure suffered heavily as well, with 8,896 roads, 6,147 water supply schemes, and 87 bridges reported damaged.
The state has calculated cumulative economic losses at Rs. 4,50,444.91 lakh (over Rs. 4,500 crore).
District-wise, Mandi recorded the highest toll with 37 rain-related deaths, followed by Chamba (28), Kullu (31), Kangra (34), and Shimla (23). In road accidents, the worst-affected districts were Mandi and Shimla (24 each), Solan (24), and Chamba and Kangra (22 each).
The SDMA has stressed that even though some regions have clear skies, the risk of landslides, flash floods, and house collapses remains high due to water-saturated fragile hill slopes. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to stay alert and follow all safety advisories.
Also Read: Heavy rains paralyse life in Himachal, Punjab on alert
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