What is the extent of the monsoon devastation in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Heavy rainfall and cloudbursts wreak havoc in Mandi district, leading to tragic loss of life and extensive damage. With ongoing rescue operations and government support, the situation demands urgent attention and analysis to prevent future disasters.
Key Takeaways
- 69 fatalities and 37 missing due to monsoon rains.
- Significant damage in Seraj and Dharampur areas.
- Government assistance of Rs 5,000 per month for affected families.
- 110 injuries reported, with ongoing rescue operations.
- 14 cloudbursts in Mandi district raise concerns.
Shimla, July 4 (NationPress) In light of the recent heavy downpours and multiple cloudbursts, which have tragically resulted in 69 fatalities and 37 individuals missing in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu confirmed on Friday that significant destruction to homes and agricultural lands has occurred in the Seraj and Dharampur regions of Mandi district.
The state government has announced a monthly assistance of Rs 5,000 for families whose residences were damaged and are currently residing in rental housing. He mentioned that the respective SDMs have been instructed to ensure food supply for those affected.
During a media briefing, the Chief Minister indicated that these crucial decisions followed consultations with Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, Deputy Speaker Vinay Kumar, and other local legislators. The disaster has also left 110 individuals injured. He plans to revisit the impacted areas shortly.
Sukhu reported having a conversation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah concerning the state’s damages. The Union Home Minister has pledged complete support, and a Central team is set to arrive to evaluate the situation. Notably, 14 cloudburst events occurred in Mandi district alone, raising serious concerns. “It is essential to investigate the reasons behind such frequent cloudbursts. I also discussed this issue with the Union Home Minister,” the Chief Minister stated.
The total loss incurred by the state due to rain-related disasters amounts to Rs 700 crore, severely affecting roads, electricity networks, and drinking water supply systems. The Chief Minister noted that all Cabinet ministers are conducting departmental review meetings to assess the damage extent. Regarding road access, nearly 300 roads remain obstructed, approximately 790 drinking water schemes have been compromised, and 332 power transformers have been impacted.
In Mandi district, 402 individuals have been rescued as part of ongoing relief efforts. Additionally, 92 students and teachers stranded at the Forestry and Horticulture College in Thunag have been safely evacuated.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are conducting search operations across various villages in Thunag.
Responding to inquiries regarding National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) projects, the Chief Minister expressed concerns that large companies often receive contracts yet lack understanding of the delicate hill terrain. Consequently, their hill-cutting practices lead to further damage. He recommended that NHAI consider awarding contracts to local contractors familiar with the geography.
Meanwhile, a government spokesperson reported that 241 water supply schemes in the Thunag area sustained damage, with 66 already temporarily restored. Currently, 164 roads remain blocked in Mandi district.
Furthermore, ongoing rescue missions in the villages of Rukchui, Bharad, and Piyala Deji within the Thunag subdivision have resulted in 65 individuals being relocated to safer areas and receiving medical assistance.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the government's swift response and the ongoing efforts of rescue teams. The loss of life and the scale of destruction highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive disaster management strategy. We must stand in solidarity with the affected communities and advocate for measures that enhance preparedness and resilience against such natural calamities.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the recent devastation in Mandi?
The recent devastation was primarily caused by heavy rainfall and multiple cloudbursts that resulted in severe flooding.
How many people have been affected?
As of now, 69 people have died, and 37 are missing, with significant injuries and damage reported.
What assistance is being provided to the affected families?
The government is providing Rs 5,000 per month as rent assistance for families whose homes have been damaged.
What is the current status of road access in the region?
Nearly 300 roads are blocked, severely affecting transportation and relief efforts.
What are the long-term implications of these cloudbursts?
The frequent occurrence of cloudbursts necessitates a detailed study to understand the underlying causes and to develop preventative measures.
