Himachal Pradesh continues to grapple with major disruptions in public utilities due to persistent monsoon rains.
According to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), as of 10:00 AM on July 31, a total of 301 roads remain blocked, 436 power distribution transformers (DTRs) are non-functional, and 254 water supply schemes have been impacted across the state.
The SEOC report confirmed that heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours is the primary cause behind the widespread breakdown in essential services.
Mandi district reported the highest number of road blockages with 193 routes shut, followed by Kullu (47) and Chamba (25). Power disruptions were particularly severe in Kullu and Chamba, with 134 and 142 transformers affected, respectively.
Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, the total death toll in the state has reached 170—comprising 94 rain-related fatalities and 76 deaths due to road accidents.
Authorities remain on high alert as key national highways, including NH-21 between Mandi and Kullu, have become impassable due to landslides and flooding. Although restoration efforts are underway, continuous rainfall is hampering recovery operations.
An earlier SEOC report noted that the monsoon damage has resulted in losses worth over ₹1,59,981 lakh to public and private property. Additionally, 2,743 hectares of crops have been damaged, 680 homes affected, and more than 22,900 livestock lost.
The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) continues to coordinate with local administrations to restore essential services and clear roads. However, with further rain in the forecast, residents have been urged to stay cautious and avoid travel to vulnerable areas.
Disaster response teams have been deployed in sensitive zones to carry out rescue and relief operations.
Kullu district alone has reported losses exceeding ₹48 crore since the start of the monsoon season, with 17 deaths recorded, Deputy Commissioner Torul S. Raveesh said.
(ANI)