Outlook Planet Desk
Relentless rains have battered Himachal Pradesh, mainly Kullu and Mandi districts. Flash floods and landslides have killed 20 people so far, with losses pegged at over ₹48 crore. Kullu officials and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have begun evacuations.
Kullu district reported 17 deaths due to landslides and cloudbursts since June 20. Around 65 residents in Darmedha village were shifted after a landslide warning. The administration has intensified monitoring in vulnerable zones to prevent further casualties.
Kullu alone recorded over ₹48 crore in damage from this year’s monsoon. Roads, water supply lines, and electric transformers have been severely impacted by the continuous downpour, disrupting both public services and daily life.
On July 29, a flash flood struck Mandi town following a cloudburst, causing widespread destruction in areas like Jail Road and Hospital Road. Homes and shops were flooded, vehicles buried, and rescue teams worked till late morning to evacuate people.
Across both districts, rains have caused massive disruption. Over 357 roads were blocked, 182 power transformers were damaged, and 179 water supply lines were hit. In Mandi, shops, buildings, and local markets faced severe waterlogging and damage.
As a precaution, 65 people from Darmedha village in Banjar tehsil were moved to safer locations. The district administration is on alert and efforts are on to clear roads and restore basic services where possible.
Himachal Pradesh has suffered over ₹1,500 crore in losses this monsoon, with at least 170 deaths reported so far. Damage spans roads, power lines, housing, and water networks. Restoration is underway, but fresh rain may worsen the situation in affected districts.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alerts for several districts, including Mandi, Kullu and Shimla. Authorities expect heavy rain to continue till August 3 and are urging residents to stay cautious.