Shimla, Oct 9
The 2024 monsoon season, which lasted from June 27 to October 2, has caused widespread destruction across Himachal Pradesh.
As reported by the State Disaster Management Authority, the state experienced a total of 600.9 mm of rainfall, about 18% below the normal average. However, extreme weather events, including cloud bursts, flash floods, and landslides, resulted in significant loss of life and property.
The most devastating effects were felt between July 31 and August 1, particularly in the Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts, where heavy rains led to 55 fatalities.
Satellite imagery from the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) in Hyderabad has provided insights into the extent of the damage, especially in the Samej area of Shimla, where flash floods destroyed homes and vital infrastructure.
The satellite data revealed a dramatic increase in water spread in the affected areas. Notably, Samej village reported 33 of the 55 casualties due to the floods.
Analysis of high-resolution satellite images indicated that the channel width of the Samej Khad expanded from 35 meters to 118 meters following the disaster.
The financial impact of the disaster has been estimated at ₹1,363 crore for the state. Officials have stressed the importance of conducting in-depth studies on cloud bursts and the effects of climate change to enhance the protection of mountain communities against future calamities.
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