Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, July 23 (ANI): Relentless monsoon fury continues to disrupt normal life across Himachal Pradesh, with rising death tolls and extensive damage to critical public infrastructure.
According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), 344 roads remain blocked, 169 power distribution transformers are out of service, and 230 water supply schemes have been disrupted due to heavy rains. The cumulative death toll stands at 137, with 77 fatalities directly attributed to rain-related incidents such as landslides, floods, and flash storms. Another 60 deaths have occurred in road accidents, many believed to have been triggered by slippery roads and poor visibility in the hill state, the SDMA said.
Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba districts have reported the most significant damage. Mandi alone accounts for 232 blocked roads, while Kullu has 71 and Chamba 60. Power outages remain widespread, particularly in Mandi, where 98 transformers are down, and in Kullu, which has reported 52 outages. Water supply disruptions are concentrated in Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmour districts.
The SDMA noted that National Highway-70 remains blocked in the Mandi–Kotali section. Additionally, the Badsala Bridge in Una has been declared unfit for traffic since early July, further compounding logistical challenges.
Emergency teams are working round the clock to clear roads, restore electricity and water supplies, and provide aid to affected areas, authorities said.
Officials have appealed to travelers and tourists to avoid non-essential travel in the region and to adhere strictly to weather and safety advisories. (ANI)
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