Himachal Pradesh, known for its breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty, recently experienced a severe natural disaster. On August 1, 2024, the state was hit by cloudbursts and flash floods, causing significant damage to life and property. The calamity has left many people missing and has disrupted the daily lives of residents and tourists alike.
Cloudburst Incidents in Shimla and Mandi Districts
In the Shimla district, particularly in the Rampur area, a sudden cloudburst resulted in severe flooding. Several people went missing, and the local administration, supported by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, home guards, and fire services, immediately launched search and rescue operations. Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur emphasized the need for better preparedness, drawing from the damages experienced last year.
Similarly, in the Mandi district, another cloudburst struck the Thaltukhod area in the Padhar subdivision. Approximately 50 people were reported missing, with two bodies recovered so far. The heavy rainfall expected in the next 36 hours poses additional challenges for the ongoing rescue efforts.
Impact and Response
The recent disasters have caused widespread damage across the region. A total of 52 people have been reported missing, with numerous infrastructure damages, including four bridges. Around 15 houses were severely affected, and nine people were left stranded. Additionally, five roads and one major highway (NH) were blocked due to landslides and floods.
Infrastructure and Assistance
The heavy rains have led to the damage of four bridges and the blocking of five roads, making transportation and communication difficult. The Chandigarh-Manali and Manali-Leh highways were also blocked, causing significant disruptions. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to clear the blocked roads and provide relief to those affected.
For assistance, people can contact local authorities in the affected districts. In Shimla, the district administration is available for help, while in Mandi, the district collector’s office is coordinating rescue and relief efforts. For statewide emergencies, citizens can dial the helpline number 1100.
Safety Measures and Public Warnings
Residents and tourists in the affected areas are advised to stay informed and adhere to the instructions provided by the authorities. The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, announced the establishment of a 24/7 emergency support team at the district level to assist the public.
People also issued a warning, indicating that the main dam in Malana has broken, urging people to avoid rivers and streams. Additionally, the flood gates of the Pandoh Dam have been opened, further increasing the risk of flooding.
The recent cloudbursts and floods in Himachal Pradesh have caused widespread devastation, affecting both infrastructure and people’s lives. The local authorities, along with rescue teams, are working diligently to manage the situation and provide necessary aid. It is crucial for everyone in the region to remain cautious and follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and their loved ones during this challenging time.
