An overnight cloudburst in Dharampur town of Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, left the local bus stand and market underwater, washing away several Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses and private vehicles, while houses and shops were buried under debris.
Officials said on Tuesday that one person is feared missing. Flash floods triggered by the cloudburst caused widespread damage across the town.
The town is situated around 250 km from the state capital.
Residents reported that the flooding of the Saun rivulet, a tributary of the Beas, was far worse than the 2015 deluge.
Heavy rains began around 11 PM, intensifying by 1 AM, prompting people to flee their homes in panic.
At the bus stand, several HRTC buses were submerged, and some were carried away by the current. Homes along the rivulet banks were inundated, and vehicles were swept off.
People waiting at the bus stand had to rush to the upper floors as shops were flooded. Many residents spent the night on rooftops, and around 150 children were safely moved to the higher floors of a local hostel.
Casualties and Damage
Police confirmed that no human casualties have been reported so far, though one person remains missing. Numerous cars and two-wheelers were washed away, and debris entered several homes and businesses.
The water level of the rivulet has now receded to normal. Meanwhile, locals have been assisting in relief and rescue efforts. However, strong currents have slowed operations.
The local administration has mobilised resources to accelerate rescue and relief work.
Heavy rainfall also affected the Sarkaghat subdivision of Mandi district.
Former Chief Minister and BJP leader Jairam Thakur described the damage as ‘colossal’. He expressed concern over heavy rain across several parts of the state since Monday night.
Thakur urged residents to remain alert, prioritise the safety of themselves and their families, and follow all guidelines issued by authorities.
Shimla and the surrounding areas also experienced landslides and disruptions due to the downpour, further affecting normal life in the state.
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