Shimla –Himachal Pradesh continues to reel under one of the harshest monsoons in recent years, with 45 cloudbursts recorded between June 20 and August 30. The extreme weather events have left 17 people dead directly from cloudbursts and pushed the overall monsoon death toll in the state to 320, according to data from the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC).
Out of the total casualties, 166 were caused by natural disasters. These included 11 deaths from landslides, nine from flash floods, 33 from drowning, 14 from electrocution, 13 from accidental falls, and 38 from other causes. Road accidents, worsened by slippery roads and damaged stretches, accounted for another 154 fatalities.
Kangra reported the highest number of deaths with 30, followed by Mandi with 29 and Chamba with 14. Multiple casualties were also reported from Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Una, and Lahaul-Spiti, where flash floods claimed three lives.
The financial impact of the monsoon has been staggering, with overall losses estimated at over ₹3,04,207 lakh. Public infrastructure bore the brunt, with damages reported in the Public Works Department (₹1,69,368.6 lakh), Jal Shakti (₹1,07,043.5 lakh), and power sector (₹13,946.69 lakh). Schools, hospitals, rural development projects, and urban services also sustained extensive losses.
Private property destruction has been widespread. A total of 346 houses were completely damaged, 478 partially damaged, and nearly 2,236 huts and labor sheds destroyed. Additionally, 981 cowsheds, 467 shops and factories, and 16 community structures, including gharaats and smashan ghats, were lost.
The state’s agriculture and horticulture sectors have been left crippled. Crops across more than 1.69 lakh hectares and orchards spanning 1.07 lakh hectares suffered extensive damage, compounding the hardships of farmers and fruit growers.
The livestock sector also took a major hit, with 1,873 animals and 25,755 poultry birds perishing. To date, the government has released ₹1,439.3 lakh in ex-gratia compensation to affected families.
Officials warn that the danger is far from over, as the monsoon has not fully withdrawn. Districts have been directed to remain on high alert for possible flash floods, landslides, and fresh cloudburst incidents through September.
