Cloudbursts Cause Devastation in Himachal Pradesh: 2 Dead, 53 Missing; Monsoon Fury Hits Uttarakhand
In a tragic turn of events, two people have lost their lives, and at least 53 others are missing after multiple cloudbursts wreaked havoc across the districts of Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh this morning. The cloudbursts triggered massive destruction, damaging houses, schools, and hospitals, and disrupting road connectivity in the affected areas.
Himanchal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu confirmed the casualties. Authorities have ordered the closure of all schools and colleges in Kullu and Mandi districts as a precautionary measure.
“NDRF, SDRF, DCs, and officials are present at the spot. We have instructed the officials to make all arrangements. We have also sought help from the army. I appeal to people not to go near canals and rivers. CM Sukhu stated that the Air Force has been asked to be ready. He added that the damage to roads and infrastructure is extensive, with Manali completely losing connectivity.
In Shimla, a cloudburst near a hydroelectric power project at Samej Khad has left at least 20 people missing. Rescue teams are facing challenges due to blocked roads and are attempting to hike to the affected site. Top officials, including Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap and district police chief Sanjeev Gandhi are overseeing the rescue efforts.
Mandi district, about 125 km from Shimla, has also been hit hard. A cloudburst in Rajban village near Muhal Terang has led to road blockades and landslides, prompting Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan to issue an order closing all educational institutions and vocational training centers in the Padhar subdivision.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation and has directed top officials to ensure all possible assistance is provided to those affected.
Uttarakhand Also Affected
Meanwhile, neighboring Uttarakhand has also been hit by severe monsoon conditions. In Tehri Garhwal district, a cloudburst in Jakhanyali claimed the lives of two people, identified as Bhanu Prasad (50) and Anita Devi (45). Another person was injured in the incident. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) is actively involved in rescue operations, with three more people reported missing.
In Haridwar, two children, Aas Mohammed (10) and Nagma (8), died, and nine others were injured when the roof of a dilapidated house collapsed due to heavy rainfall. The injured were rushed to a local hospital, with three in critical condition, according to District Magistrate Dhiraj Singh Garbyal.
The ongoing monsoon season continues to wreak havoc in the region, with authorities urging residents to remain cautious and avoid risky areas as relief operations continue.
