Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 31 (HBTV): Relentless monsoon rains have caused widespread disruption across Himachal Pradesh, crippling infrastructure and claiming lives across multiple districts.

According to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), as of 10:00 AM on July 31, a total of 301 roads remain blocked, 436 power distribution transformers (DTRs) are non-functional, and 254 water supply schemes have been affected due to the continuous downpour.

Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, the state has reported 170 fatalities. Of these, 94 deaths were due to rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, and electrocution, while 76 people lost their lives in road accidents, as per a cumulative report from the SEOC.

Mandi district recorded the highest number of rain-related deaths (21), followed by Kangra (19) and Kullu (10). The devastation has also affected over 400 homes, 1,627 cow sheds, and extensive public infrastructure including roads, power lines, and water supply systems.

The SEOC has urged residents to remain cautious and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary, especially in areas vulnerable to landslides and flash floods. Restoration work is in progress, but continuous rainfall is hampering efforts.

An earlier SEOC report revealed that the monsoon has caused estimated damage worth over INR 1,59,981 lakh to public and private property. Additionally, 2,743 hectares of crops have been affected, 680 homes damaged, and more than 22,900 livestock lost.

The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) continues to coordinate with local administrations for restoring essential services and clearing blocked roads. With more rainfall predicted, authorities have placed disaster response teams in sensitive zones for timely rescue and relief operations.

In Kullu district alone, losses have exceeded INR 48 crore since the beginning of the monsoon season, with 17 fatalities reported, according to Deputy Commissioner Torul S Raveesh.

(ANI)