Himachal Pradesh monsoon: 72 dead, Rs 541cr losses as rains trigger landslides and flash floods

Shimla, July 5,

Unrelenting monsoon rains have unleashed widespread devastation across Himachal Pradesh, claiming 72 lives and leaving 37 people still missing, according to the latest data released by the State Emergency Operation Centre. The toll includes 27 deaths caused by road accidents since the onset of the monsoon season, while another 113 individuals have suffered injuries in rain-related incidents.

The worst-hit region is Mandi district, which has reported 20 fatalities, followed by Kangra (13 deaths), Chamba (9), Shimla (5), and Una (5). Other affected districts include Kullu, Kinnaur, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Solan, and Sirmaur, with causes ranging from landslides, flash floods, and electrocution to drowning and gas cylinder blasts.

The economic damage has surged past Rs 541 crore, with widespread destruction to public and private infrastructure. At least 288 homes, 507 cowsheds, and 69 shops have been reduced to rubble, while over 251 cattle and 10,000 poultry birds have perished in the deluge.

Roads blocked, villages cut-off

Infrastructure continues to crumble under nature’s assault. As of Saturday morning, 261 roads remain blocked, with Mandi alone accounting for 176 closures, severely disrupting connectivity in the hill state. Continuous landslides and slope failures triggered by saturated soil have left multiple villages isolated.

Additionally, 300 power transformers are out of service, and 281 drinking water supply schemes have been disrupted. The worst-hit areas include Sundernagar and Dharampur subdivisions of Mandi district, where 278 water schemes remain non-functional, severely impacting daily life.

State of High alert

With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall from July 5 to 8, the Himachal Pradesh administration has placed all emergency services on high alert. Citizens are being strongly advised to avoid non-essential travel, especially in landslide-prone and flood-vulnerable zones.

This ongoing monsoon crisis is among the worst in recent years for the Himalayan state, highlighting the fragile nature of its ecosystem and infrastructure. Authorities are scrambling to restore road connectivity, water supply, and power in affected regions, even as fresh weather warnings raise fears of more destruction.

As the rain continues to batter Himachal Pradesh, the coming days will be critical for both rescue operations and mitigation planning. The government has urged residents to remain vigilant and follow all safety advisories issued by local authorities.

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Himachalscape bureau

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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.

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Himachalscape bureau

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.