Monsoon Fury Triggers Floods, Landslides in Himachal, Red Alert in 10 Districts

Himachal Pradesh is reeling under the impact of relentless monsoon rains, with several districts witnessing massive floods, landslides, and infrastructure damage. As of July 1, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for 10 districts, including Shimla, Mandi, Solan, and Kullu.

Mandi remains the worst-affected, with the Beas River overflowing and flooding towns like Karsog, Dharampur, and Thunag. Homes and shops were inundated, roads washed away, and vehicles swept into rivers overnight. In Karsog’s Megli village, streams burst through residential areas, damaging multiple homes and submerging vehicles.

In Shimla, a five-storey building in Bhattakufer collapsed due to water seepage, but fortunately had been evacuated. Over 129 roads have been blocked statewide, including the Chandigarh-Shimla highway, while the iconic Shimla-Kalka rail route remains suspended due to track damage.

The Disaster Management Authority has urged residents in low-lying and landslide-prone areas to remain alert and evacuate if advised. Schools and colleges have been closed in high-risk areas, including Manali and Banjar.

IMD warns that heavy rainfall is expected to continue through the week, with monsoon winds from both the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea intensifying in the northern Himalayan belt. The public is advised to monitor official updates and avoid unnecessary travel.

Emergency shelters have been set up, and rescue teams remain on standby as the region continues to face severe weather conditions.

Source: India TV