
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), June 28 (ANI): Torrential monsoon rains have caused widespread destruction across Himachal Pradesh, claiming 34 lives and inflicting cumulative damages amounting to ₹7,119.27 lakh between June 20 and June 28, according to a report released by the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) of the Himachal Pradesh Revenue Department.
The SEOC’s latest cumulative damage statement details a grim toll of the monsoon’s impact: 34 fatalities, 74 injuries, and 136 animal deaths have been recorded so far. In addition to the tragic loss of life, the heavy rains have led to the complete destruction of 38 houses and partial damage to 136 more.
Public infrastructure—including roads, water supply systems, electricity lines, and health and education facilities—has borne the brunt of the damage, with losses estimated at ₹3,856.56 lakh. Private property losses, including homes, livestock shelters, and agricultural holdings, have been pegged at ₹3,076.03 lakh.
District-wise Impact
Kangra district reported the highest number of fatalities (12), mostly caused by flash floods, landslides, and electrocution. Other affected districts include Chamba, Bilaspur, Una, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla, which also reported casualties and property damage.
Una and Solan districts registered the highest private property losses, while Kullu district saw significant damage to agricultural land and electrical infrastructure.
Among the 34 deaths, seven were attributed to flash floods, four to drowning, two to electrocution, and four to other accidental causes. Notably, the report mentioned that no deaths have been caused by cloudbursts, lightning, or fires so far this season.
Government Response
The Himachal Pradesh government has placed all emergency services on high alert as the monsoon continues to intensify, especially across vulnerable hilly regions. District administrations have been instructed to accelerate restoration work and provide immediate relief and compensation to the affected families.
The SEOC emphasized that the highest damages have occurred in sectors under the Public Works Department, Jal Shakti Vibhag, and Power Department.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant, particularly in landslide- and flood-prone zones, as more rainfall is expected in the coming days. The SEOC continues to monitor the evolving situation and coordinate relief efforts across the state.
(ANI)