Flash Floods Devastate Himachal: 78 Dead, Red Alert Issued
Red Alert Issued in Several Districts
GG News Bureau
Thunag/Mandi, 7th July: Flash floods triggered by incessant monsoon rains have left a trail of devastation across Himachal Pradesh, claiming 78 lives since June 20 and causing widespread destruction, including the collapse of vital infrastructure and disruption to essential services. Among the worst-hit is Thunag in Mandi district, where the first floor of the Himachal Cooperative Bank has been destroyed, leaving residents anxious about their savings and valuables.
The bank, a lifeline for over 8,000 residents, suffered extensive damage with cash, documents, lockers, and jewellery reportedly turned into debris. Local trader Hari Mohan described the bank’s condition as catastrophic. “It undertook numerous transactions daily. Now, everything inside is gone,” he said. With concerns over theft, locals have begun guarding the premises as valuables swept away in the floods are reportedly being looted.
As of July 6, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) confirmed 23 flash flood incidents, 19 cloudbursts, and 16 landslides. Of the 78 deaths, 50 were directly attributed to rain-related disasters such as flash floods (14), drowning (8), electrocution and falls (8), and other incidents like landslides and lightning strikes. Road accidents during inclement weather accounted for 28 fatalities. At least 37 people remain missing, while 115 have been injured.
Infrastructure Paralyzed
The disaster has crippled the state’s infrastructure. Currently, 243 roads, including two national highways, remain blocked. Additionally, 278 electricity transformers are non-functional, and 261 water supply projects have been disrupted.
IMD Issues Red Alert, GSI Warns of Landslides
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted “very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls” for today, followed by heavy rainfall on July 8 and 9. A red alert has been issued for Mandi, Kangra, and Sirmaur districts, while an orange alert is in place for seven others, including Shimla, Solan, and Kullu.
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has issued landslide warnings for Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri, and Uttarkashi districts. Areas like Ghansali, Dhanaulti, and Ukhimath have been flagged as high-risk for July 7–8.
Statewide Emergency Response Activated
The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) has directed all District Magistrates and disaster response agencies to remain on high alert. All nodal officers under the Disaster Management Incident Response System (IRS), along with revenue, panchayat, and development officers, have been ordered to stay stationed in their respective regions.
Officials have also been asked to keep wireless and communication equipment functional and ensure phones remain switched on for the next 48 hours. The movement of tourists and residents in high Himalayan regions is restricted, and vehicular and pedestrian activity is advised against during heavy rainfall spells.
Strategic deployment of heavy machinery, including JCB and Pokland machines, has been ordered to manage road blockages and clear landslide debris effectively.
As the monsoon continues to batter the hill state, residents are grappling with both loss and uncertainty. With more rainfall predicted, authorities urge maximum caution and preparedness in the days ahead.
