Is Himachal Facing a Monsoon Crisis? 1 Dead, Several Missing in Mandi Due to Cloudbursts and Landslides

Shimla, July 1 (NationPress) Severe and relentless rainfall in Himachal Pradesh over the last few days has led to a series of devastating events, including building collapses, landslides, and significant road blockages across various areas.

The Mandi district has been particularly hard-hit, experiencing cloudbursts and flash floods. The municipal regions of Karsog and Dharampur have endured extensive damage due to the deluge.

In Karsog, the old market was overwhelmed by flash floods last night, with vehicles seen floating in the rapid currents. Homes near riverbanks suffered considerable destruction, leaving many individuals stranded as water levels surged unexpectedly. Tragically, one fatality has been reported.

Karsog DSP Taranjeet Singh informed IANS that disaster response teams are actively engaged and have successfully rescued over 25 individuals to safety so far.

Dharampur also faced similar challenges, where intense rainfall triggered landslides that destroyed numerous homes. Additionally, some household pets reportedly lost their lives in the incident.

The water levels in rivers and other water bodies have surged to alarming heights due to the heavy rains, raising serious concerns for public safety in lower regions. Authorities have warned residents to avoid riverbanks and overflowing drains.

Relief and rescue teams remain on high alert, prepared to respond if conditions deteriorate in any area. Educational institutions, including schools and colleges in Mandi, have been closed due to fears that continued rainfall could escalate the situation.

In the Gohar subdivision, a house was swept away by the severe floods, endangering many lives. Reports indicate that several families are missing, although a mother and daughter were successfully rescued.

The individuals reported missing include Padam Singh (75), Devku Devi (70), Jhabe Ram (50), Gokulchand Pangalur, Parvati Devi (47), Jhabe Ram Pangalyu, Surmi Devi (70), Indra Dev (29), Jhabe Ram, Umavati (27), Kanika, and Gautam (7).

Meanwhile, the Sirmaur district, located in southern Himachal Pradesh, is also grappling with heavy rains. Daily life has been severely disrupted, with roads and streets inundated, affecting public transportation. Electricity supply has suffered due to transformer failures caused by the relentless rains.

Rivers and drains are overflowing due to the excessive downpour, with people urged to maintain a safe distance from water bodies.

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) regional manager Asheenth Sharma stated that at least 10 bus routes have been suspended due to landslides and related challenges.

“Four bus routes from Nahan and Pachhad, and two from Dadahu bus stand have been canceled until conditions improve,” he added.