Himachal Pradesh monsoon causes 183 deaths and ₹972 crore in losses

The monsoon season in Himachal Pradesh has caused significant devastation, resulting in 183 deaths and financial losses exceeding ₹972 crore since June 30. According to the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), the fatalities include 79 deaths from natural hazards such as landslides and flash floods, while 104 deaths were attributed to road accidents.

Infrastructure damage is widespread, with over 100 roads blocked and hundreds of water supply schemes disrupted. The Public Works Department and the Jal Shakti Vibhag have reported substantial losses. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts for several districts, forecasting continued heavy to very heavy rainfall through August 21.

Amidst the weather crisis, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is expected to visit Mandi on August 18. The visit is intended to be a private interaction to inaugurate a school building that was rebuilt following the 2023 floods, a project she reportedly supported after students requested assistance during the previous disaster.