Himachal Pradesh faces monsoon fatalities and construction-related building cracks

Himachal Pradesh has faced severe devastation due to an 85-day monsoon period from June 30 to September 22. Data from the State Emergency Operations Centre reveals that 354 lives were lost across the state, with 143 deaths attributed to disaster-related incidents such as landslides, drowning, and flash floods, while 211 deaths resulted from road accidents. The monsoon caused estimated monetary damages exceeding Rs 3,219 crore, destroying 601 houses and partially damaging 1,416 others.

In the Shimla district, specifically the Shanti Vihar area of Sanjauli, residents have reported cracks appearing in buildings following tunnel construction work conducted by the National Highways Authority of India. Local authorities have initiated monitoring of the structures using specialized instruments to track the progression of the cracks. To determine the cause and recommend remedial actions, the district administration has requested a scientific assessment from IIT Roorkee.