Himachal Pradesh Flash Floods: 72 Dead, 500 Roads Blocked, Red Alert Issued

Himachal Pradesh is grappling with severe monsoon devastation as relentless rainfall triggers cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides across the state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu confirmed that since June 20, at least 72 people have died, over 100 sustained injuries, and 40 remain missing.

The downpour has caused widespread destruction, with more than 500 roads closed, including 176 in the worst-hit Mandi district. Fourteen bridges have been washed away, severely hampering movement and relief operations. The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) has pegged initial damage estimates at ₹541 crore, but the Chief Minister believes losses may rise to ₹700 crore.

Since the onset of monsoon, 14 cloudbursts have been reported, destroying homes and public infrastructure. Over 300 livestock, including 164 cattle, have perished. Hundreds of homes have been damaged or flattened by the extreme weather.

The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for very heavy rainfall in Kangra, Sirmaur, and Mandi districts for Sunday, and an orange warning across eight other districts through Tuesday.

Jogindernagar received the highest rainfall at 52 mm, followed by Nahan and Palampur with 28.8 mm each. Moderate rainfall was observed in other parts of the state.

Relief efforts are underway, especially in Mandi, with the NDRF and local authorities conducting rescue missions. The state government announced ₹5,000 emergency rental assistance for displaced families.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured central support, while officials urged residents to avoid rivers and landslide-prone areas as more rain is forecast until July 7.