Himachal Rains Devastation: Over 50 Lives Lost in Tragic Flashfloods and Landslides

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In a heart-wrenching disaster, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a catastrophic toll of over 50 lives lost due to heavy rains, flashfloods, and landslides. The devastating situation has unfolded with Mandi and Shimla districts experiencing the most significant impact, recording 23 and 19 casualties respectively. This grim event comes as a result of this year's monsoon, which began on June 24 and has already claimed a staggering 257 lives in the region.

Authorities report a cumulative loss of ?7,020.28 crore, as the monsoon fury relentlessly wreaks havoc on the state. The relentless rainfall has washed away bridges, led to landslides, and obliterated houses, leaving the affected regions in a state of despair. Tragically, even the revered Shiv temple at Summer Hill in Shimla witnessed a landslide tragedy, claiming lives of devotees who had gathered to offer prayers during the auspicious month of Sawan.

The devastation further extends to the UNESCO world heritage Shimla-Kalka railway bridge, which suffered substantial damage due to the forces of nature. As rescue operations continue in the aftermath of these calamities, the state's Meteorological Office has issued warnings of more rain, heightening the urgency of relief efforts.

The cumulative death toll related to rain-triggered incidents since June 24 has now reached a staggering 283. This relentless deluge has resulted in the complete destruction of 1,442 houses, with another 8,160 partially damaged due to 112 landslides and 58 flash floods. Himachal Pradesh is grappling with the colossal task of rebuilding and rehabilitating the affected areas.

Despite the challenges, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has expressed determination to restore normalcy. He revealed that around half of the 1,200 affected roads will be reopened by evening. However, the situation remains grim as meteorologists predict extremely heavy rainfall in nine out of the state's 12 districts in the coming days.

The extent of destruction is evident in the closure of key transportation routes, with the Chandigarh-Manali national highway shut down due to flash floods. Landslides have also blocked alternate routes between Mandi and Kullu. Tragedies within families compound the grief, such as the seven members who lost their lives in a landslide in the Seghli panchayat. A cloudburst in Jadon village, Solan district, claimed the lives of seven family members and led to the destruction of two houses.

Water reservoirs are also in peril, with Pong Dam surpassing its maximum limit due to an inflow of 7.3 lakh cusecs, and the Bhakra Dam reaching a critical level of 1,675.71 ft.

As Himachal Pradesh battles this unprecedented natural calamity, the state's resilience and the support of the nation remain crucial in rebuilding shattered lives and communities.