National News: Himachal Pradesh is currently grappling with a severe weather-related disaster. On Tuesday, cloudburst incidents were reported at seven locations in the Mandi district, leading to widespread devastation. So far, 10 people have been confirmed dead, and 30 others are reported missing. The worst-affected areas include the Gohar, Karsog, Thunag, and Dharampur subdivisions, where several houses were swept away in flash floods triggered by torrential rains.
Disaster Response: 132 Rescued by Villagers & Administration
Thanks to the swift action of the local administration and villagers, 132 individuals have been rescued from disaster-hit zones. As per official figures, Gohar reported five fatalities, Saraj recorded four, while one person lost their life in Karsog. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu confirmed that 287 affected individuals have been rescued, while special teams from the NDRF, police, and home guards have been deployed to track down the missing persons.
Statewide Impact: 12 Districts Affected, 204 Houses Damaged
A cumulative damage assessment report issued by the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) on July 2, covering the period from June 20 to July 1, paints a grim picture. The report reveals that at least 51 people lost their lives due to incidents like cloudbursts, landslides, drowning, lightning strikes, and road accidents. 22 individuals remain untraceable, while 103 people have sustained injuries. Additionally, 204 homes have been damaged, including 22 that have been completely destroyed.
Loss Estimated Over 500 Crore: CM Sukhu
Speaking to reporters in Nadaun on Tuesday, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that the estimated losses from the disaster have already reached 500 crore, with the figure expected to rise further. He assured the public that the state government stands firmly with the victims and is making all-out efforts to restore essential services, including electricity and road connectivity. Relief and rehabilitation efforts are underway at a rapid and intensive pace.
Search and Relief Operations Ongoing
The administration has urged people to stay away from rivers, streams, and landslide-prone areas and to strictly follow the safety advisories issued. Rescue teams from the NDRF, police, and home guards are working around the clock to search for missing persons, clear debris, and distribute relief materials to the affected families.
Monsoon Havoc Leaves Lasting Scars
This monsoon-triggered disaster has inflicted serious damage to life, property, and public infrastructure across Himachal Pradesh. While emergency response teams continue to work tirelessly, experts believe the greatest challenge now lies in the long-term rehabilitation of displaced residents and in strengthening disaster-preparedness mechanisms for the future.
