Monsoon Havoc in Himachal Pradesh: 29 Lives Lost, Temple Collapse Tragedy, and Ongoing Challenges
Amidst the relentless downpour in Himachal Pradesh, the state is grappling with the aftermath of a destructive monsoon, resulting in the tragic loss of 29 lives. Among the casualties, nine individuals were tragically buried beneath the debris of a collapsed temple in Shimla, while seven members of a family lost their lives in a cloudburst incident in Solan.
The situation remains grim as 15 to 20 people are feared to be trapped in two separate landslides within Shimla city. Rescue efforts are currently underway to extricate those trapped.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has taken charge to provide comprehensive aid to affected families. He has advised residents to remain indoors and steer clear of landslide-prone areas. Tourists have also been urged to postpone visits during this critical period.
The havoc wreaked by incessant rain has led to the closure of over 700 roads due to triggered landslides. A crucial section of the National Highway connecting Shimla and Chandigarh has been repeatedly hit by landslides, stranding numerous vehicles along the route.
In response to the dire situation, educational institutions across the state, including schools and colleges, have been closed for the day. Ongoing Post Graduate exams have been canceled to ensure the safety of students amidst the relentless rainfall.
The Indian Meteorological Department attributes the heavy rains to a fresh episode of Western Disturbance. A grim weather forecast predicts exceptionally heavy rainfall in nine out of the state’s 12 districts, with a yellow warning issued for Tuesday, excluding Kullu, Kinnaur, and Lahaul and Spiti.
The economic toll of the protracted rain has been staggering, with the state administration estimating losses amounting to ₹7,000 crore. The monsoon onslaught has led to damage to 1,376 houses and partial damage to an additional 7,935 houses.
Himachal Pradesh has been battling the relentless monsoon onslaught since its onset on June 24, resulting in a tragic death toll exceeding 260 individuals. The situation remains fluid as the state continues to grapple with the challenges posed by this season’s monsoon fury.
