Is Himachal Pradesh Facing Another Catastrophic Flood Event?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Himachal Pradesh is grappling with severe flooding as heavy rains lead to the blockage of hundreds of roads and highways. The unprecedented rainfall disrupts power and water supply, leaving many stranded. In this report, we delve into the impact of this natural disaster and its implications for the residents of this picturesque state.
Key Takeaways
- 822 roads and three national highways blocked.
- 1,236 distribution transformers disrupted.
- Severe flooding conditions reported in Punjab.
- 166 fatalities due to monsoon-related disasters.
- Government's proactive measures have reduced human casualties.
Shimla, Aug 31 (NationPress) As Himachal Pradesh endures another bout of heavy to torrential rain, a staggering 822 roads and three national highways have been rendered impassable, leaving numerous motorists stranded.
Moreover, the relentless downpour has disrupted 1,236 distribution transformers, causing widespread power outages across the state.
According to weather analysts, a significant interaction between a robust western disturbance and the monsoon axis is anticipated to continue over northern India for three days starting Sunday, potentially exacerbating flooding conditions in several regions of the mountainous state and the adjacent plains of Punjab, which is grappling with its most severe flooding crisis in 37 years, as noted by Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal.
The Himachal Emergency Operation Centre reported that Chamba is the most affected district, with 253 roads blocked; Mandi follows with 207 roads, including National Highway 3; Kullu has 176 roads shut, including National Highway 305; Kangra has 61 roads closed; Shimla has 39 roads blocked; and Lahaul and Spiti has 11 roads obstructed, including National Highway 5.
Out of the total 1,236 transformers affected, 357 are located in Kullu, 330 in Una, 296 in Chamba, 117 in Mandi, 51 in Solan, 11 in Kinnaur, 9 in Lahaul and Spiti, 3 in Shimla, and 2 in Kangra. Additionally, 424 water supply schemes have been disrupted, notably 212 in Kangra, 77 in Chamba, 56 in Mandi, 39 in Kullu, 32 in Shimla, and 4 each in Solan and Hamirpur, affecting water accessibility in various regions.
Tragically, 166 lives have been lost in Himachal Pradesh due to monsoon-related disasters from June 20 to August 30.
According to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the current destruction from the monsoon is significantly more severe than in 2023. He conducted an aerial assessment of disaster-stricken areas in Chamba district, including Bharmour and Manimahesh, as well as the Fatehpur and Mand regions of Indora in Kangra district, which faced excessive water discharge from the Pong dam. Sukhu emphasized that the government's proactive measures have contributed to a comparatively lower loss of human life than what was experienced in 2023.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the state's resilience in the face of natural calamities. The government’s proactive measures have lessened the human toll compared to previous years. However, the community's ongoing struggles with infrastructure and safety highlight the need for robust disaster preparedness and response strategies.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas in Himachal Pradesh are most affected by the floods?
Chamba district is the hardest hit, with 253 blocked roads, followed by Mandi with 207 roads shut.
How many lives have been lost due to the recent disasters?
A total of 166 lives have been lost in Himachal Pradesh due to monsoon-related disasters from June 20 to August 30.
What measures are being taken to address power outages?
The state is working to repair the 1,236 disrupted distribution transformers to restore power supply.
Is there a risk of worsening flood conditions?
Yes, weather experts warn that the ongoing western disturbance may exacerbate flooding in several areas.
What is the government doing to help affected residents?
The government is conducting aerial surveys and implementing proactive measures to mitigate loss of life and property.
