What Happened in Himachal's Mandi? Two Dead, 2 Missing After Torrential Rain

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Two fatalities and two missing individuals reported in Mandi.
- Severe flooding and landslides have caused extensive damage.
- Rescue operations are ongoing to locate the missing.
- 200 roads are blocked across Himachal Pradesh.
- Economic losses are significant, exceeding Rs 1,52,311 lakh.
Mandi, July 29 (NationPress) Tragically, two individuals lost their lives and another two remain unaccounted for in Mandi on Tuesday, following relentless rainfall that persisted overnight. This deluge resulted in severe flooding and landslides across Himachal Pradesh.
The heavy rains commenced around 11 p.m. on Monday, escalating in intensity by 4 a.m., leading to significant infrastructural damage.
One of the most impacted areas was the Zonal Hospital in Mandi, where overflowing drains caused water to flood the grounds, prompting authorities to close the main access road.
Numerous internal roads throughout the district were obstructed by landslides, isolating various localities and putting residents in perilous situations.
The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway (NH-3) was blocked at multiple locations between Mandi and Kullu, stranding numerous vehicles in extensive traffic jams.
According to the data released by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) and the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), as of the evening of July 28, 200 roads across the state remained obstructed.
Moreover, 62 power transformers ceased functioning, and 110 water supply systems were disrupted due to the ongoing rains.
Since the monsoon onset on June 20, the state has witnessed a total of 164 fatalities as of July 28, with 90 of these directly related to rain-induced disasters such as landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, drowning, and electrocution.
The remaining 74 deaths were recorded in road incidents during this timeframe, as per official statistics.
The district of Mandi recorded the highest fatalities at 32, followed by Kangra with 24, and Chamba with 17. Himachal Pradesh has faced substantial economic setbacks, with damages to homes, livestock, and public infrastructure estimated to exceed Rs 1,52,311 lakh.
The SDMA reported that since June 20, Himachal Pradesh has experienced 42 flash floods, 25 cloudbursts, and 32 landslides.
Furthermore, Mandi district has the highest number of rain-related deaths, totaling 18, with Kangra at 17, Kullu at 10, and Chamba at eight.
Over 251 houses have been completely destroyed, and another 1,165 structures have suffered partial damage.
Rescue and relief efforts are ongoing, with officials actively searching for the missing individuals.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant.