Himachal Pradesh is facing a challenging situation due to relentless rainfall, with nearly 700 roads blocked by landslides, including four major national highways. These highways connect important areas like Kullu-Mandi, Mandi-Pathankot, Kalka-Shimla, and Theog-Hatkoti. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for six districts, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall.
This wet spell is expected to continue until August 29, particularly affecting Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur districts. Hamirpur and Bilaspur have been issued an orange alert. The state has witnessed widespread rainfall, with Jogindernagar recording 150mm of rain, followed by Palampur with 136.8mm, Nahan with 92.7mm, Shimla with 79mm, and Dharamshala with 70.2mm, among others.
Tragically, landslides have claimed lives, with one more body recovered from the site of a landslide at the Shiv temple in Shimla. In total, 25 bodies have been found in the debris of three major landslides in Shimla. Regrettably, two more bodies remain buried. The rain has taken a heavy toll, with about 120 rain-related deaths in the state this month and a total of 239 since the monsoon began in June.
The situation has severely impacted transportation, particularly the National Highway between Mandi and Kullu due to a heavy landslip near Pandoh. Relief camps have been set up to assist affected residents. In Shimla, where 200mm of rain fell in one night, people are struggling with road closures at 24 different locations in the city.
The continuous rain and its consequences have taken a psychological toll on the residents. Hospitals are reporting more cases requiring psychological treatment, as families deal with property loss and the loss of loved ones. The unpredictable weather has left people anxious and sleep-deprived.
Himachal Pradesh has experienced three major spells of heavy rain this monsoon, each with its share of destruction. The state is facing a challenging period, and the resilience of its people is being put to the test as they cope with the aftermath of these natural disasters.
