Himachal Pradesh Grapples with Devastating Monsoon Fury: Death Toll Rises Amidst Widespread Destruction

The northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh is reeling under the relentless onslaught of monsoon rains, which have triggered a series of devastating flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides since June 20. The cumulative death toll has tragically climbed to at least 80, with dozens more reported missing, as rescue and relief operations intensify across the affected regions.

Mandi district has emerged as the epicentre of the disaster, bearing the brunt of the monsoon’s fury. The region has witnessed numerous cloudburst incidents, leading to severe flash floods that have swept away homes, vehicles, and vital infrastructure. Other severely impacted districts include Kangra, Kullu, and Shimla, where incessant rainfall continues to cause widespread disruption.

Official reports indicate that at least 50 of the fatalities are directly attributed to rain-related incidents such as flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides, while the remaining deaths are linked to road accidents exacerbated by the hazardous weather conditions. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has confirmed 23 flash floods, 19 cloudbursts, and 16 landslides across the state.

The scale of infrastructural damage is immense. Hundreds of roads, including national highways, remain blocked, isolating numerous villages and hampering rescue efforts. Over 280 power transformers have been affected, leading to extensive electricity outages, and nearly 280 water supply schemes have been rendered non-functional, severely impacting basic services for thousands of residents. The estimated financial loss to the state is pegged at hundreds of crores, with figures potentially rising as comprehensive assessments continue.

In response to the escalating crisis, a massive search and rescue operation is underway. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and local administration are working tirelessly to locate the missing and provide assistance to stranded communities. Drones and sniffer dogs are being deployed in remote areas to aid in the search. Authorities have distributed thousands of ration kits and medical supplies, along with immediate financial relief, to those affected.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued continuous warnings, including red, orange, and yellow alerts, forecasting further heavy to very heavy rainfall in various parts of the state until July 10. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and adhere to safety advisories issued by local authorities. The state government, in coordination with central agencies, is focused on rapid restoration of essential services and providing comprehensive support to the displaced and affected families as Himachal Pradesh braces for continued monsoon challenges.