Shimla – The relentless monsoon has wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh, leaving 355 people dead since June, according to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). Of these, 194 died in weather-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, drowning, lightning, and other natural calamities, while 161 were killed in road accidents triggered by heavy rains.
The SDMA report covering June 20 to September 4 highlighted that 416 individuals sustained injuries and 49 remain untraceable. All 12 districts have suffered, with Mandi recording the highest fatalities at 58, followed by Kangra with 50, Chamba 43, Shimla 38, and Kullu 31.
Breaking down the rain-related deaths, 35 people lost their lives in landslides, 33 in drowning incidents, 17 in cloudbursts, and 15 in falls from steep slopes and trees. Other casualties occurred due to electrocution, snake bites, fires, and avalanches.
Monsoon road tragedies also added to the toll, with 22 deaths each in Chamba and Mandi, 19 in Kangra, 18 each in Shimla and Solan, 14 in Kinnaur, and 13 in Kullu.
The financial impact has been severe, with public property losses estimated at over ₹3,787 crore. Roads, water supply systems under Jal Shakti, and power distribution networks have been badly damaged. On the private side, 415 houses were completely destroyed, 597 partially damaged, and 1,212 cowsheds and huts flattened. Commercial losses include 28 shops and factories, alongside widespread rural infrastructure collapse.
Authorities have directed district administrations to keep rescue and relief operations as a top priority, focusing on restoring roads, electricity, and drinking water supply. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable regions, and heed official weather warnings.
