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Heavy rains have wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh since late Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. In a series of unfortunate incidents, at least five lives have been lost and around 50 people have gone missing, primarily due to cloudbursts in the districts of Mandi, Shimla, and Kullu.
Unprecedented Cloudbursts Trigger Chaos
Thursday witnessed nature’s fury at its peak as cloudbursts in Mandi, Shimla, and Kullu districts resulted in devastating landslides and floods. As rescue operations continue, authorities have confirmed the recovery of two bodies, while around 50 people remain unaccounted for. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, warning of more heavy rainfall and potential flash floods in Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts.
Latest Updates: Himachal Pradesh on High Alert
- Flash Flood Warning: The IMD has sounded a flash flood warning for six districts of Himachal Pradesh, namely Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Chamba, and Sirmaur. Residents are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions.
- State Response: Onkar Chand Sharma, the additional chief secretary of HP, has issued a heavy rain alert until August 2, with further updates expected based on IMD data.
- Government Support: Himachal’s Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been actively coordinating with central authorities. The Union Home Minister has assured all possible assistance, with two additional National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams being dispatched. Additionally, BJP Chief Nadda and Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have been in contact to offer support.
- Prime Minister’s Monitoring: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation, especially in Mandi. He has directed top officials to ensure comprehensive support and aid for the affected regions.
- Army’s Involvement: The Indian Army has mobilized substantial resources for rescue operations. Three columns, comprising 125 personnel, an Engineer Task Force, and a Medical Team of 20 personnel, have been deployed in Shimla to assist with the rescue efforts.
IMD Rain Forecast for Himachal Pradesh
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread and heavy rainfall across various regions of Himachal Pradesh for today, highlighting the ongoing weather challenges the state faces.
Forecast Breakdown:
High Hills: In the high hill regions, rainfall is expected at many places. The rough terrain and heavy rains can trigger landslides and disrupt transportation and communication networks.
Low Hills/Plains: Most areas in the low hills and plains of Himachal Pradesh are expected to experience rainfall. The consistent downpour poses a risk of flooding and landslides in these regions.
Middle Hills: Similar to the low hills, the middle hill regions are also predicted to receive rain at most places. The continuous rain may lead to increased water levels in rivers and streams, potentially causing flash floods.
Casualties and Damage
The relentless downpour and subsequent cloudbursts have caused severe damage across the affected districts. Roads have been washed away, bridges have collapsed, and many homes have been inundated. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate the missing individuals and provide relief to those affected by the floods.
Community Efforts and Safety Measures
Communities in Himachal Pradesh are coming together to support each other during this challenging time. Volunteers are assisting in rescue operations and providing shelter and food to those displaced by the floods. Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors, and follow safety protocols to minimize risk.
As Himachal Pradesh grapples with this natural disaster, the resilience and solidarity of its people shine through. With continued support from the government and coordinated efforts from rescue teams, the state is working towards recovery and rebuilding in the aftermath of these catastrophic events.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops, and remember to stay safe and informed.
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