New Delhi (Agency): In Himachal Pradesh, India, 281 roads, including National Highway 305, have been blocked due to heavy rainfall, as reported by the State Emergency Operation Centre on Sunday. Additionally, 177 water supply schemes have been disrupted. However, no fire incidents have been reported in the past 24 hours, according to government data.
This comes amid a harsh monsoon season in the state, during which at least 367 people have died in rain-related incidents since June 24, according to the State Disaster Management Authority. The onset of the monsoon season has been disastrous, leading to an average of about seven individuals losing their lives daily due to weather conditions.
The state has been battered by consistent heavy rainfall for weeks, causing not only loss of life but also significant property damage. Incidents like landslides, cloudbursts, and flash floods have been common. The disaster management authority has estimated that the monetary loss due to these rain-related incidents could reach nearly Rs 12,000 crore.
In just the last two weeks, several significant landslides have occurred across different parts of the state, with the most recent one being in Kullu on Thursday. A breakdown of the data reveals that out of the total deaths recorded, 136 people have lost their lives specifically due to landslides and flash floods, while 231 people died due to road accidents or other reasons.
The situation is alarming, especially considering the extensive damage to crucial infrastructure like roads and water supply schemes. The blockage of a significant National Highway, among other roads, presents a considerable challenge for rescue and relief operations, as well as daily commuting for residents. The disruption in water supply schemes adds another layer of complexity to an already difficult situation.
The state of Himachal Pradesh is grappling with a crisis as a result of persistent heavy rainfall. Hundreds of roads are blocked, affecting the transportation network and creating further difficulties for a state already suffering from a high number of rain-related casualties and property losses. With disrupted water supplies and the ongoing threat of more rain and landslides, the authorities face a monumental task in managing this crisis and mitigating its impact.