Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 8 (HBTV): The monsoon in Himachal Pradesh continues to impact daily life in various parts of the state, with the death toll since June 20 rising to 202. Of these, 108 deaths were caused by rain-related disasters such as landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, while 94 resulted from road accidents, according to the Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) under the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA).
In addition to the mounting human toll, the damage to infrastructure has been severe. As per SEOC's latest update, 452 roads remain blocked, including two National Highways. Meanwhile, 861 distribution transformers and 244 water supply schemes are disrupted across the state.
Districts such as Mandi, Kullu, and Kangra have reported extensive damage to roads, houses, public utilities, and crops. Mandi alone has recorded 42 rain-related deaths, the highest among all districts, with widespread flooding and landslides destroying homes, schools, cattle sheds, and agricultural fields.
The SEOC report highlights 51 landslides, 58 flash floods, and 30 cloudburst events across the state during this monsoon period. Rescue and relief operations are ongoing in vulnerable regions with support from the NDRF, ITBP, and local administration.
A senior SEOC official stated, 'We are witnessing one of the most challenging monsoon seasons in recent memory. Teams are working round the clock to restore essential services and provide relief. People are urged to stay vigilant and avoid travel in high-risk zones.'
The government has intensified its disaster response, deploying machinery and rescue teams in the affected districts and activating 24x7 control rooms.
Notably, according to the Daily Report on Landslide Monitoring dated August 7, 2025, out of the 21 monitored sites, 11 locations have been identified with moderate landslide activity, while nine are currently tagged as low-risk. One site near Vishwakarma Temple in Mandi is under watch, though no automated monitoring system is installed there—predictions are instead based on weather patterns.
(ANI)