One Dead, many missing in major cloudburst and flash flood incidents in Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, Aug 1
Himachal Pradesh has experienced severe destruction due to cloudbursts and flash floods, particularly affecting the districts of Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu during the night of July 31 and August 1.
These weather events have resulted in one confirmed death and left at least 45 people missing.
In Shimla’s Rampur area, an early Thursday morning cloudburst caused extensive damage to homes, schools, and hospitals. According to Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, 32 people are currently missing, with rescue operations in progress. Teams from the SDRF, NDRF, ITBP, and Special Home Guard are on-site, though damaged roads have hampered access.
In Mandi’s Thalatukhod region, a midnight cloudburst led to the collapse of houses and disrupted road connectivity. Nine people are missing, and one body has been recovered. The Mandi district administration has sought assistance from the Air Force and NDRF, and SDRF teams are working tirelessly despite the challenging conditions. Deputy Commissioner Apurva Devgan is traveling to the affected areas on foot to supervise the relief efforts.
Kullu’s Malana Nallah region also faced significant damage due to heavy rains. The Malana One and Malana Two power projects have been severely impacted, and the water level in the Parvati River has risen to dangerous levels. Residents along the riverbanks have been urged to evacuate to safer locations. In the Nirmand area, 8-10 houses, including Patwar Khana, hotels, and shops, have been washed away. Seven to ten people, including seven members of one family, are reported missing. Local Tehsildar and rescue teams are conducting search operations, though many bridges have been destroyed and roads closed, complicating the efforts.
All educational institutions in the affected regions have been closed as authorities focus on rescue and relief operations.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
