Cloudbursts Devastate Himachal Pradesh: 2 Dead, Over 50 Missing

Multiple cloudbursts devastates Himachal Pradesh as it has wreaked havoc across Kullu, Shimla, and Mandi districts. As of today, rescue operation team had recovered two bodies, and there are reports of more than 50 people missing in the affected areas.

The cloudbursts, which occurred early this morning at around 4:40 A.M., have caused significant disruption and damage. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu confirmed the severity of the situation during a high-level meeting to review rescue and relief operations. The most severely impacted regions include Rampur Tehsil in Shimla, Padhar Tehsil in Mandi, and Jaon in Nirmand Village of Kullu.

In response to the crisis, the Centre has deployed two additional battalions of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to support ongoing relief and rescue efforts. The Indian Army and Indian Air Force are also on high alert due to forecasts of continued heavy rainfall over the next 36 hours.

The tourist destination of Manali has been cut off from the rest of the state following severe damage to the National Highway. Additionally, the cloudburst has caused damage to the Malan hydropower project’s dam in Kullu, though the authorities are assessing the extent. Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized that the state government is working on a war footing to address the situation, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured central assistance and NDRF support.

Cloudbursts devastate Himachal Pradesh, led flash flood

The cloudbursts have led to flash floods in the Beas and Parvati rivers, resulting in extensive damage to both public and private properties. In Kullu District, significant flooding has impacted various locations, with the National Highway between Kullu and Manali blocked due to a flood near Kalath. Reports indicate that the flooding has damaged several bridges and led to the collapse of a newly-constructed vegetable market building.

In Rampur, at least 36 people are missing, and rescue operations are underway involving teams from the ITBP, SDRF, and Home Guards. In Mandi District, a cloudburst in Rajban Village near Terang washed away two houses and partially damaged another, with nine people still unaccounted for and one injured person rescued.

The Shimla Meteorological Office has issued an ‘Orange’ alert for heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning at isolated places in the state for the next 24 hours. Authorities have warned of potential landslides and additional flash floods in vulnerable areas across Kullu, Solan, Sirmaur, Shimla, and Kinnaur districts.

In response to the dire situation, the Kullu administration has advised residents to stay away from rivers and water channels. The Manali-Leh road has been closed due to massive landslides, and the local administration remains vigilant, continuously alerting residents living on riverbanks through sirens. Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Raman Sharma has urged people to leave their homes only in emergencies and avoid unnecessary travel.

Union Minister and BJP Chief JP Nadda has pledged all possible support from the Central government and directed BJP workers to assist in the relief efforts. The state government, along with various agencies, commits to providing all necessary aid to those affected by this severe weather event.

Notably, PM Modi is continuously monitoring the situation on ground as cloudbursts devastate Himachal Pradesh