Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 17 (ANI): Heavy rains continue to batter Himachal Pradesh, causing widespread disruption to infrastructure and claiming hundreds of lives this monsoon season.
According to the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA), as of the evening of August 17, 352 roads—including three national highways—remain blocked. In addition, 1,067 power distribution transformers (DTRs) and 116 water supply schemes have been disrupted across the state.
The HPSDMA reported that since June 20, the ongoing monsoon havoc has claimed 263 lives, including 136 deaths in rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, and house collapses. Another 127 people have been killed in road accidents caused by slippery conditions and poor visibility.
The highest number of road blockages has been reported from Mandi district (201), followed by Kullu (63) and Kangra (27). Among the national highways, NH-305 in Kullu, NH-05 in Kinnaur, and NH-21 in Mandi remain closed due to landslides and flooding.
Power supply has also been severely impacted, with Kullu reporting 557 disrupted transformers, followed by Mandi (385) and Lahaul-Spiti (112). Water supply has been affected as well, with 44 schemes disrupted in Mandi and nine in Kullu.
Officials said restoration efforts are underway on a war footing, but frequent landslides, ongoing rainfall, and high-altitude challenges are slowing the process.
“The situation remains grim in several districts, especially in Mandi, Kullu, and Lahaul-Spiti, where heavy rainfall continues to hamper road connectivity, power supply, and water services,” the HPSDMA stated.
Road connectivity remains worst-hit in Mandi, with 201 blockages, including on the strategic NH-03. In Kullu, 63 roads are closed, including NH-305 at Khanag, while in Kinnaur, NH-05 has been disrupted at Tinku Nalla due to landslides. (ANI)
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