Himachal Floods Cause 170 Deaths, £1,500 Crore Damage

Heavy monsoon rains in Himachal Pradesh have triggered devastating flash floods and landslides, resulting in at least 170 deaths and damages exceeding £1,500 crore. The state is grappling with widespread destruction as rescue efforts continue.

The monsoon season, starting in June, brought intense rainfall to Himachal Pradesh, causing cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides across multiple districts. Mandi, Kullu, and Shimla have been among the hardest hit, with over 100 roads closed and hundreds of homes, bridges, and infrastructure damaged. The state disaster management authority reports that 78 deaths were linked to monsoon-related incidents, including flash floods, electrocution, and road accidents. Rescue operations are ongoing, with teams from the Army, NDRF, and local authorities searching for dozens of missing people. The challenging terrain and damaged roads have hampered efforts, leaving many areas without clean water or electricity.

Mandi district alone reported significant casualties, while Kangra, Chamba, and Shimla also faced losses. The state government has deployed helicopters and heavy machinery to aid rescue efforts and restore connectivity. The meteorological department has warned of continued heavy rainfall, raising concerns about further landslides and flooding. The state’s hilly terrain, combined with unplanned urban development, has increased vulnerability to such disasters. Many towns are built on steep slopes, leading to homes collapsing or being swept away by mud and water.

The central government has provided support, with additional NDRF teams deployed and financial assistance approved for affected states. Himachal Pradesh received £139 crore for disaster mitigation projects, part of a larger £1,554.99 crore package for five states. The state government is also offering temporary relief, including financial aid for affected families. The economic impact is significant, with losses to infrastructure, water supply systems, and electricity networks disrupting daily life and local economies.

The climate crisis has intensified monsoon patterns, leading to erratic and extreme rainfall. Experts highlight that rising temperatures and environmental degradation are increasing the frequency and severity of such events. The state’s history of monsoon-related disasters, including the 2023 floods that killed over 300 people, underscores the need for better disaster preparedness and sustainable urban planning.

In conclusion, the flash floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh have caused immense loss of life and property, with damages surpassing £1,500 crore. Ongoing rescue efforts and government support aim to address immediate needs, but long-term solutions are essential to mitigate the impact of climate-driven disasters in the region.

Source: Outlook Business