Heavy rain in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh has caused major destruction over the past few days. Torrential downpours have led to dangerous floods, cloudbursts, and landslides in several parts of the state. As of now, at least 69 people have died, and many more are missing or injured.
The rain began suddenly and continued for days, affecting districts like Mandi, Shimla, Kullu, Kangra, and others. Roads have collapsed, rivers have overflowed, and hillsides have crumbled under the force of the rain. Many people were trapped in their homes or swept away by strong currents. Rescue workers are trying hard to find those who are still missing.
Mandi Faces the Worst Situation
Among the many places affected, Mandi district has suffered the most damage. In some areas, houses were washed away. Cars and buses were dragged by the water. Rescue teams reported that more than 40 people were missing from Mandi alone. Flash floods and landslides have blocked roads, making it difficult for emergency workers to reach certain villages.
Local people said they had never seen rain this heavy in such a short time. Some homes were buried under mud. Schools were closed, electricity lines were damaged, and communication was cut off in some hilly areas. Many people spent nights in the open, with no shelter or food.
Roads, Homes, and Bridges are Destroyed
The destruction has been widespread. According to government officials, over 500 roads have been damaged or closed due to landslides. More than a dozen bridges have been destroyed. Several houses have either collapsed completely or are no longer safe to live in.
Water supply systems and electric lines have also been damaged in hundreds of locations. In some villages, people do not have clean water or electricity. Efforts are being made to restore basic services, but progress is slow because of blocked roads and constant rainfall.
Government Sends Help and Relief to Families who lost their homes
The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has visited the affected areas and promised help for those who have lost their homes and loved ones. The state government has started giving money to people who need temporary shelter and has opened relief camps for those forced to leave their homes.
So far, hundreds of people have been rescued by local teams, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the army. Boats, helicopters, and digging machines are being used to help rescue people and clear blocked roads.
The central government, including Home Minister Amit Shah, has also promised support. Teams from Delhi have been sent to help with rescue and relief work. The Prime Minister’s Office is monitoring the situation closely.
Is this Sign of Changing Climate ?
Experts believe such extreme weather is becoming more common due to climate change. In mountain states like Himachal Pradesh, the land is already fragile. When it rains heavily, the soil cannot hold the water, and landslides occur. Over-construction, cutting down of trees, and poor drainage systems make the situation worse.
Scientists and environmental groups are urging the government to focus more on sustainable development and better planning in hilly areas to avoid such disasters in the future.
