Severe Flooding in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi District After Heavy Rainfall

Devastation in Mandi District Due to Torrential Rain

In the aftermath of devastating rainfall in the Kullu Valley, the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh has experienced catastrophic flooding and landslides due to multiple cloudbursts. Official reports indicate that at least 13 individuals have lost their lives, with 34 others reported missing. However, local residents claim that 14 bodies have been recovered so far, and approximately 40 individuals remain unaccounted for. The Seraj area has suffered the most damage, with entire roads, bridges, and homes washed away.

The district recorded an astonishing 140.7 millimeters (mm) of rainfall, which is a staggering 1,939 percent above the average of 6.9 mm. In just 24 hours, nearly 13 percent of the seasonal monsoon rainfall for Mandi fell, leading to flood-like conditions across the region. The State Disaster Management Authority has deployed teams to the area, and rescue operations are ongoing. It is estimated that around 80,000 residents have been affected.

Multiple Incidents of Cloudbursts and Flooding

On Tuesday, ten incidents of cloudbursts occurred in various parts of Mandi district, resulting in three sudden floods and one landslide. Authorities reported that two bodies were recovered this morning, with seven found in Gohar, five in Thunag, and one in the Karsog subdivision of Mandi district. The disasters have led to the destruction of over 150 homes, 104 livestock sheds, 31 vehicles, 14 bridges, and numerous roads.

Rescue Efforts and Infrastructure Damage

The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) reported that a total of 162 livestock have perished due to the disasters, while 370 individuals, including 316 from Mandi, have been rescued, and five relief camps have been established. The Manali-Kelong route has been blocked due to flooding, and traffic has been redirected through the Rohtang Pass.

Officials stated that the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has deployed personnel and machinery to clear the roads. The SEOC noted that a total of 261 roads across the state are closed to traffic, with 186 of these located in Mandi district. Flooding has also disrupted 599 transformers and 797 water supply schemes.

Government Response and Support for Affected Residents

Chief Minister Sukhu and opposition leader Jai Ram Thakur visited the affected areas on Wednesday. Sukhu assured local residents that if any government land is available nearby, it would be allocated to those who have lost their homes.