Shimla, July 25,
Despite the ongoing subdued monsoon in Himachal Pradesh, the number of casualties due to various mishaps continues to rise. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has reported that around 103 lives have been lost this season, with a significant number of fatalities occurring on rain-affected roads and 49 due to other monsoon-related incidents.
According to updated data from the SDMA, road accidents remain the leading cause of deaths during the monsoon season. Additionally, fatalities due to weather-related incidents such as drowning in swollen rivers, dam mishaps, and snake bites are increasing.
The SDMA has reported that 54 people have died in road accidents, while 49 have succumbed to other causes. Among these, one person died in a flash flood in Sirmaur district following heavy rains.
Further details reveal that 15 people drowned, 7 died due to snake bites, 6 were electrocuted, 18 fell from trees or heights, and 2 died from other causes. The highest number of casualties has been reported in Kangra district with 19 deaths, followed by Mandi with 13, and Sirmaur and Una districts each recording 9 deaths.
During this period, 177 individuals have been injured and three are reported missing. The entire monsoon season has seen 14 houses completely destroyed and 74 partially damaged, resulting in an estimated loss of around Rs 400 crore, a figure that is expected to rise with further rainfall.
The Meteorological Department has reported that the state has experienced approximately 40% deficient rainfall. However, an increase in monsoon activity is anticipated in the coming six days, with heavy rain expected in parts of Chamba, Kangra, and Sirmaur districts. Residents are advised to remain alert.
According to Shubrato Katyal, the new Director of the Shimla Meteorological Office, Himachal Pradesh typically records around 294 mm of rain from June 1 to July 23, but this year, it has only received 178 mm, marking a deficiency of approximately 39.45%. No district in the state has received more rainfall than normal, though Kangra district has seen an uptick in rainfall over the past five to six days.
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