Monsoon Turns Deadly in Himachal: 72 Lives Lost, ₹541 Crore in Damages Over 15 Days
Pictures of devastation in Himachal
Shimla, July 5:
The ongoing monsoon season in Himachal Pradesh has unleashed a wave of destruction and loss, turning into a tragic chapter for the hill state. Between June 20 and July 4, heavy rains, cloudbursts, landslides, flash floods, and road accidents have caused widespread devastation. In just 15 days, 72 people have lost their lives, 113 have been injured, and 37 remain missing—leaving the state reeling.
According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), the total estimated loss to life and property during this period has crossed ₹541 crore. Mandi district has been the worst hit, with 12 cloudbursts reported in a single night on June 30 alone. The district has reported 20 deaths so far, 14 of which occurred due to cloudbursts.
Kangra district has recorded 13 fatalities, including 7 due to landslides and 2 following cloudbursts. Statewide data shows 14 deaths linked to cloudbursts and 8 from flash floods or fast-moving water currents.
The disasters have not only claimed lives but also severely damaged both public and private property. As per official records, 19 homes have been completely destroyed, while 82 others have suffered partial damage. Additionally, 208 cattle sheds, 21 shops, several gaushalas, and even entire apple orchards and farmlands have been wiped out. Numerous private vehicles have also been damaged or lost.
The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) has reported the loss of over 10,000 poultry birds and 251 other livestock, dealing a heavy blow to the rural economy and livelihoods of many.
Road accidents have added to the death toll this season, with 27 people killed in crashes over the past 15 days. Slippery roads and continuous rainfall have been major contributing factors. Chamba recorded the highest number of road accident deaths (6), followed by 3 each in Mandi, Bilaspur, and Kullu.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has issued a fresh warning for the next 24 hours, predicting even more dangerous weather. A red alert has been issued for Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur districts on July 6, with the possibility of flash floods in Chamba, Mandi, Kangra, and Sirmaur. Authorities are on high alert and have advised the public to stay away from riverbanks and avoid travel to hilly areas.
Relief and rescue operations are underway, but access remains a challenge due to broken roads and ongoing weather disruptions. Teams from the NDRF and State Disaster Response Force are actively deployed, with helicopters being used to deliver relief materials to isolated areas.
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