What Happened During the Cloudburst in Himachal’s Mandi?
Synopsis
A sudden cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district has caused devastating floods, sweeping away vehicles and burying homes under debris. The community is mobilizing for rescue and relief efforts amidst concerns for the missing. Former CM Jairam Thakur urges residents to prioritize safety as heavy rains continue to pose a threat.
Key Takeaways
Cloudburst leads to severe flooding in Dharampur .
Many vehicles, including HRTC buses, were swept away.
Residents sought refuge on rooftops as waters rose.
Rescue operations are in progress, despite strong currents.
Former CM urges vigilance and safety measures.
Shimla, Sep 16 (NationPress) A sudden cloudburst overnight in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district caused severe flooding, submerging the bus stand and market in Dharampur town. Many parked buses belonging to the state-run Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and personal vehicles were swept away, burying homes and shops under a mass of debris.
Officials reported that one individual is feared missing as the flash floods unleashed by the cloudburst devastated Dharampur, located approximately 250 km away, inundating vast areas. Locals noted that the severity of flooding this time was significantly worse compared to the events of 2015. Heavy rainfall began around 11 p.m. and intensified by 1 a.m., prompting residents to evacuate their homes in terror.
The HRTC buses stationed at the bus stand were engulfed by rising water levels, with several swept away entirely. Homes adjacent to the swollen Saun rivulet, a tributary of the Beas River, were submerged, while numerous vehicles fell victim to the ferocious current.
Individuals waiting at the bus stand had to seek refuge on the upper levels as water inundated the area, submerging shops. Terrified residents climbed onto their roofs and spent the night there. Thankfully, nearly 150 children were successfully rescued to higher floors of a nearby hostel.
According to police reports, there have been no confirmed casualties so far, although one person is reported missing. Numerous vehicles, including both four-wheelers and two-wheelers, were carried away by the floodwaters, and debris has entered various homes and stores.
Currently, water levels of the rivulet have normalized, and local residents are actively participating in rescue and relief efforts; however, the powerful currents continue to hinder operations.
The local administration is mobilizing resources to expedite relief and rescue missions.
In addition to Dharampur, heavy rains also impacted the Sarkaghat subdivision within the district.
Former Chief Minister and BJP leader Jairam Thakur stated that the heavy rains have led to extensive destruction. He expressed concern over the significant rainfall across various regions of the state since the previous night. “Reports of severe damage are pouring in from the Dharampur and Sarkaghat areas, with some individuals also reported missing,” he remarked.
“I urge the residents of the state to remain vigilant during this weather, prioritize their safety and that of their families, and strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the authorities,” Thakur added.
The state capital, Shimla, and its neighboring areas also experienced multiple landslides and disruptions due to the relentless downpour.
Point of View
Our commitment lies with delivering timely and accurate news. The recent cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh exemplifies the urgent need for effective disaster management strategies. We stand with the affected communities and advocate for swift governmental action to ensure their safety and recovery.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flooding in Mandi district?
The flooding was caused by a sudden cloudburst that unleashed heavy rainfall, leading to flash floods in the region.
How many people are reported missing?
Currently, one person is reported missing, while no other casualties have been confirmed.
What actions are being taken for rescue and relief?
Local administration and residents are actively engaged in rescue operations and relief efforts, despite challenges posed by the strong currents.
What areas were affected by the cloudburst?
Dharampur town in the Mandi district was primarily affected, along with the Sarkaghat subdivision.
What should residents do during such weather events?
Residents are advised to stay alert, prioritize their safety, and follow guidelines issued by local authorities.
