Monsoon Havoc in Himachal: Landslides, Cloudbursts Paralyse Daily Life
SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh remains gripped by relentless monsoon fury as heavy rains, landslides, and cloudbursts continue to wreak havoc across the hill state. Since June 20, the active southwest monsoon has caused widespread disruptions to transportation, electricity, and drinking water systems, severely impacting daily life.
According to Akashvani correspondents, the past 24 hours have seen some of the heaviest rainfall so far. Aghar in Hamirpur district recorded the highest rainfall at 110 mm, followed closely by Nagrota Surian in Kangra with 100 mm. The impact has been severe and widespread.
The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) reports that a total of 243 roads are currently blocked for vehicular movement due to landslides and debris. In addition, 241 electricity transformers are out of service, while 278 drinking water schemes have also been rendered non-functional, further intensifying the crisis in affected areas.
In terms of structural damage, the monsoon has left 163 houses destroyed, and another 178 partially damaged, raising alarm across both urban and rural belts of the state.
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued an Orange alert for heavy rainfall in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur districts, valid till July 10. A Yellow alert has also been sounded for Chamba and Kullu districts, warning residents of continued rain-related risks.
Authorities have urged citizens to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and remain cautious, particularly in landslide-prone areas and near riverbanks. Disaster response teams are on alert, and rescue operations are ongoing in several districts.
This continued bout of intense monsoon activity highlights the growing challenge of climate-linked disasters in fragile Himalayan regions like Himachal Pradesh. As the state battles nature’s fury, both locals and tourists are being strongly advised to stay updated with official alerts and travel only when necessary.
