Monsoon havoc in Himachal: 164 dead, 200 roads blocked; rain-related deaths 90, road accidents claim 74 lives

HORNBILL TV

Himachal Pradesh continues to suffer under the relentless impact of the monsoon, with widespread damage to infrastructure and significant loss of life reported across the state.

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 28 (HBTV): Himachal Pradesh continues to suffer under the relentless impact of the monsoon, with widespread damage to infrastructure and significant loss of life reported across the state. As per the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) and the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), 200 roads remain blocked, 62 power transformers are disrupted, and 110 water supply schemes have been affected as of the evening of July 28 due to persistent heavy rainfall.

The total death toll during the 2025 monsoon season (from June 20 to July 28) has risen to 164. Of these, 90 deaths were caused by rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, drowning, and electrocution. An additional 74 fatalities have been reported due to road accidents, according to official data.

District-wise, Mandi has recorded the highest number of fatalities with 32 deaths, followed by Kangra (24) and Chamba (17). The overall devastation includes loss of human lives, damage to property and livestock, and large-scale destruction of public infrastructure. Economic losses have been estimated at over INR 1,52,311 lakh so far.

The SDMA is continuously monitoring the situation and has urged the public to remain cautious, avoid non-essential travel, and strictly follow advisories issued by district authorities.

‘Since June 20, the state has witnessed 42 flash floods, 25 cloudbursts, and 32 landslides, resulting in widespread damage to roads, houses, and public infrastructure. Mandi district has reported the highest number of rain-related casualties, with 18 deaths, followed by Kangra (17), Kullu (10), and Chamba (eight),’ the official statement added.

Over 251 houses have been fully damaged, while 1,165 houses have suffered partial damage due to rain and floods. Agricultural and horticultural sectors have also sustained substantial losses. Despite the deployment of disaster response teams and the intensification of road clearance operations, continuous heavy rains are hindering relief and rehabilitation efforts across the affected areas.

(ANI)