Mandi: The retreating monsoon has once again battered Himachal Pradesh, with torrential rains overnight causing landslides and flash floods across Mandi district. At least three people have lost their lives, while several others remain unaccounted for as rescue operations continue in difficult conditions.
In Bragta village of Nihri tehsil’s Boe panchayat, a hillside gave way early Tuesday, burying a family of five inside their home. Neighbours rushed to the spot and managed to pull out two survivors, both critically injured and admitted to the hospital. Three others remain trapped, with search efforts slowed by persistent rainfall and the threat of further landslides.
Meanwhile, the bustling Dharampur market area was turned into a floodplain when gushing waters swept through late last night. The local bus stand was submerged, with Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses washed away or left badly mangled. Dozens of shops reported water damage, and the surge carried off vehicles parked in the vicinity. One individual is reported missing in the incident.
Officials estimate that losses could run into several crores. “The destruction at Dharampur is extensive,” said SDM Joginder Patiyal. “Infrastructure has been badly hit, and many shopkeepers have lost their livelihoods overnight. Our teams are working around the clock to restore normalcy and locate the missing.”
Political leaders too expressed solidarity with affected families. BJP’s Rajat Thakur, who toured the area, described the devastation as “a cruel blow to people already struggling on the day of the Sair festival,” urging both state and central governments to provide immediate financial relief.
District authorities, aided by police, SDRF personnel and local volunteers, remain on high alert as the weather office has warned of more rain in the coming days. Residents have been advised to stay cautious near riversides and landslide-prone slopes.
