At least 78 people have died in Himachal Pradesh since June 20, after the early arrival of monsoon in the state. Flash floods and landslides triggered by cloudbursts and incessant rainfall over the last few days have wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh. More than 30 people are still missing, and rescue operations are underway.
Monsoon Turns Fatal In Himachal Pradesh
Monsoon has not been kind to Himachal Pradesh this year. According to an ABP report, the state witnessed around 23 flash floods due to 19 cloudburst incidents, and 16 landslides since the early arrival of monsoon this year. At least 79 people have died due to rain-related incidents, and extensive infrastructure damage has been reported throughout the state. An estimated loss of ₹572.69 crore has been confirmed by the State Emergency Operation Centre.
Another report by The Times of India revealed that cloudbursts and flash floods have caused 22 deaths in Himachal Pradesh this monsoon. Mandi is the worst-hit area with at least 17 rain-related deaths. Kangra reported 11, and Kullu, Chamba, and Shimla reported three deaths each.
On Sunday, two cloudbursts in Chamba and Mandi triggered yet another flash flood in the state. The flood washed away the Chamba-Chanju road, a water mill, and several structures. Four subdivisions in Chamba–Bagheigarh, Charra, Chanju, and Dehra–were cut off from the main district headquarters.
Early Onset Of Monsoon In Northern India
As opposed to the expected July 8, the monsoon hit northern India far too early this year! Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi have witnessed heavy rainfall over the last two weeks, marking an early onset of monsoon in the region.
Rain has claimed lives and caused widespread damage across Himachal Pradesh. According to official data, 269 roads have been blocked, 285 power transformers have been affected, and 278 water supply schemes have been impacted in the state.
Also Read: Grahan Trail In Himachal Pradesh Drowns In Plastic: Parvati Valley Locals Demand Immediate Action
IMD has issued warnings of more rain in Himachal Pradesh.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@itssonuyard & X/@Arvind_Kumar_02
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