Himachal Pradesh has been experiencing continuous heavy rainfall since the onset of the monsoon in June, leading to landslides, road closures, damage to infrastructure, loss of lives, and widespread disruption to daily life.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), an orange alert has been issued for chamba, kangra and mandi wiwarning of heavy rainfall on Sunday. The weather conditions have affected several districts, with heavy showers reported over the past 24 hours.
Heavy Rainfall Recorded Across the State
Mandi recorded the highest rainfall at 111.6 mm in the past 24 hours, followed by Kangra at 89 mm, Sundernagar at 71 mm, Palampur at 46.4 mm, and Paonta Sahib at 46.2 mm.
Heavy rainfall was also reported in Shimla and several other parts of the state on Sunday morning. Dense fog was observed in areas including Shimla, Sundernagar, and Kangra, further affecting visibility and travel conditions.
The Meteorological Centre, Shimla, has issued an heavy rain alert for Shimla, Kangra, Chamba, Mandi, Kullu, and Bilaspur. However, rainfall is expected to slow down from August 24.
Authorities have urged residents and tourists to remain cautious, avoid venturing near rivers, streams and other water bodies, and exercise extreme caution while travelling in areas prone to landslides and waterlogging.
149 Roads Closed Across Himachal Pradesh
The heavy rainfall and subsequent landslides have disrupted road connectivity across the state. A total of 149 roads are currently closed to traffic.
Mandi is the worst affected district, with 86 roads shut, followed by 31 in Kullu and 10 in Shimla. Restoration work is underway to reopen the affected routes and restore connectivity.
In several areas, rainwater has entered residential properties, while waterlogging has also been reported at multiple locations, adding to the difficulties faced by residents.
Power Supply Hit, 60 Transformers Damaged
The heavy rainfall has disrupted power supply across the state, with 60 electrical distribution transformers (DTRs) becoming non-operational. Power supply has been affected by damage to 20 transformers in Chamba and 25 in Mandi.
In addition, 35 water supply schemes have been disrupted across the state, including 30 schemes in Hamirpur, resulting in interruptions to water supply.
Losses Estimated at Rs 1,121.29 Crore
According to official data, Himachal Pradesh has reported total losses amounting to Rs 1,121.29 crore since June 30. Of these, 90 houses have been completely destroyed, while an additional 376 houses have sustained partial damage.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has estimated losses of Rs 836.72 crore due to damage to roads and bridges. Meanwhile, the Jal Shakti Department has assessed losses of Rs 258.61 crore from damage to drinking-water supply schemes.