Himachal Pradesh Monsoon Havoc: Six Dead, 35 Roads Blocked Amid Heavy Rainfall

Relentless monsoon rains continued to lash Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday, triggering fatalities, disrupting road connectivity and damaging power infrastructure across several districts, according to the latest report from the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC).

The SEOC reported that six people have lost their lives amid the ongoing spell of heavy rainfall across the state.

Four of the deaths were linked directly to disaster-related incidents. Kangra district recorded three fatalities caused by electrocution, lightning strikes and falls, while one person died in Mandi district.

Additionally, two people were killed in separate rain-related road accidents in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts, taking the total monsoon-related death toll to six.

Authorities said district administrations and disaster response agencies remain on alert as intermittent rainfall continues in several parts of the state.

Road connectivity hit, Kullu worst affected

Heavy rains, landslides and debris have severely impacted transportation networks, with 35 roads remaining blocked across Himachal Pradesh.

Restoration teams have been deployed to clear affected routes and restore normal traffic movement.

Kullu emerged as the worst-hit district in terms of road connectivity, with 18 roads blocked. Solan and Chamba also witnessed major disruptions, with 12 roads each affected by adverse weather conditions.

Officials said efforts are being carried out on a war footing to reopen key road links and minimise inconvenience to residents.

Power outages spread as losses cross Rs 44 lakh

The power sector has also suffered significant damage due to the ongoing monsoon conditions.

According to the SEOC, 127 distribution transformers (DTRs) are currently out of service across the state. Kullu alone accounts for 86 affected transformers. Officials attributed the outages mainly to snapped high-tension transmission lines and damaged electrical cables.

Electricity department teams have been deployed to restore power supply in the affected areas.

While road and power infrastructure have been impacted, drinking water supply schemes across the state remain operational, with no disruptions reported so far.

The SEOC estimated cumulative losses to public and private property, along with livestock, at Rs 44.40 lakh. Kangra district has reported the highest financial damage, accounting for losses of around Rs 16 lakh.

Authorities said restoration work and emergency response operations will continue as rainfall activity persists across the hill state.

(With inputs from ANI)