Mandi (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 5 (HBTV): Amid widespread destruction caused by rain-induced flash floods across Himachal Pradesh, residents of Mandi district stepped up relief efforts by distributing ration kits to affected families.

Chail Chowk Vyapar Mandal President Raj Kumar Thakur told ANI: ‘All the traders of the Chail Chowk Vyapar Mandal decided to help those who have lost their homes in the tragedy or have lost road connectivity. We have distributed ration kits to 110 families, which included 10 kg of rice, 10 kg of wheat, oil, and other food items to bring relief to the victims. We have provided a ration for 10 to 15 days.’

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday announced a set of relief measures, including INR 5,000 per month as rental assistance for families displaced by the natural calamity.

Addressing the media in Shimla following a high-level review meeting with the deputy speaker and other ministers, CM Sukhu said the state was facing a ‘disaster like a war’.

‘We reviewed the entire situation in the state caused by the current natural disaster. After evaluating the situation, we have decided that families who are staying in relief shelters and find rental accommodation in their villages will be given INR 5,000 per month by the Himachal Pradesh government,’ the Chief Minister said.

He added that the state government would also ensure the supply of food and rations to all affected families.

‘Till now, approximately 69 people (43 due to rain fury and 26 due to a road accident since June 20) have lost their lives, 37 are missing, and 110 have been injured. The total damage has been estimated at around INR 700 crore,’ CM Sukhu told reporters.

The Mandi district continues to receive heavy rainfall, disrupting daily life and damaging property. Earlier, multiple houses were reported damaged, and vehicles washed away due to a cloudburst and continuous downpours.

A local resident said: ‘Everything got washed away after a cloudburst. We are staying at our relatives’ house.’

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a rain alert for Himachal Pradesh until July 7.

According to the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority and the Revenue Department, the state has incurred damages exceeding INR 400 crore due to incessant monsoon rains. Search, rescue, and relief operations are underway, especially in the worst-hit Mandi district, where several roads remain blocked and essential services are disrupted.

(ANI)