Himachal monsoon havoc: 574 roads shut, 389 transformers and 333 water schemes hit; death toll 394, says SDMA

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 14 (HBTV): Himachal Pradesh continues to face severe disruption to infrastructure and human loss as the monsoon persists. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reported on Saturday that 574 roads remain blocked, 389 power transformers are disrupted, and 333 drinking water schemes have been damaged across the state.

According to the SDMA's evening public utility report, the death toll has risen to 394 since June 20, when the monsoon set in. Of these, 221 deaths were caused by rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, and house collapses, while 173 were due to road accidents on slippery and damaged highways.

Connectivity in rural and urban areas has been crippled, with both national and state highways blocked. Local authorities have deployed workers and machinery to clear debris, but recurring rainfall continues to obstruct restoration.

Nearly 400 transformers have been knocked out, causing widespread power outages, while over 300 water supply schemes have been damaged, leaving thousands without access to drinking water. Officials said emergency teams from the Public Works Department, Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board, and Jal Shakti Vibhag are working continuously to restore essential services. Helicopter sorties are being considered in areas where road access remains cut off.

The SDMA has warned of further disruptions if heavy rains persist and urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert.

Earlier, Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development, Savitri Thakur, visited flood and landslide-affected regions in Himachal Pradesh. She inspected areas along the Kullu-Manali route, including Vaishno Mata Temple, Sabzi Mandi (Bandrol), Raison, Dohlu Nala, Fozal Nala, Duada Vihal, Jatehar Vihal (Patlikuhal), Nalsu Nala, Manalsu Nala, Solang, Palchang, Samahan, Bahang, and the 14th to 17th Mile stretches along the Beas River.

These regions had suffered extensive damage to road connectivity due to heavy rainfall and landslides. With efforts from the central government and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), repair and reconstruction of damaged roads are underway on a priority basis to restore traffic movement and provide relief to the affected population.

During her visit, Thakur interacted with affected families, heard their concerns, and reviewed the progress of ongoing relief and rehabilitation measures.

(ANI)