Monsoon toll in Himachal rises to 409; loss to public property crosses INR 4,500 crore

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 16 (HBTV): Himachal Pradesh continues to face the devastation of the ongoing monsoon season, with the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) confirming that 409 people have lost their lives since June 20 due to rain-related incidents and road accidents.

According to the latest cumulative loss report issued by the Revenue Department's Disaster Management Cell, 229 deaths were directly linked to rain-triggered incidents such as landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, drowning, electrocution, and house collapses. Separately, 180 people died in road accidents caused by slippery stretches, landslide blockages, and poor visibility during incessant rains.

The disaster management authority also reported that 473 people were injured and 41 remain missing. The damage has extended beyond human lives, with over 2,100 animals perishing and 26,955 poultry birds lost.

On the infrastructure front, the state reported widespread destruction. A total of 5,164 houses have been completely destroyed, while 2,743 suffered partial damage. Additionally, 899 shops, 2,001 cowsheds, and 4,297 labour huts were wrecked. Public infrastructure has been severely impacted, with 8,896 roads, 6,147 water supply schemes, and 87 bridges damaged.

The state has estimated cumulative economic losses of INR 4,50,444.91 lakh (over INR 4,500 crore).

District-wise, Mandi recorded the highest toll with 37 rain-related deaths, followed by Chamba (28), Kullu (31), Kangra (34), and Shimla (23). In road accidents, the worst-hit districts were Mandi and Shimla (24 each), Solan (24), and Chamba and Kangra (22 each).

The SDMA cautioned that despite clear skies in some regions, the risk of landslides, flash floods, and house collapses remains high due to water saturation in fragile hill slopes. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories.

(ANI)