Heavy, incessant rains have caused a panic in Himachal Pradesh as landslides, cloudbursts, and floods have caused residents to bunker down in their homes. However, in a bit of respite, some parts of the hills saw light sunshine on Wednesday. IMD Shimla meteorologist Bui Lal on Wednesday predicted that there may be rain in some areas across Chamba, Mandi, Shimla, Bilaspur, Solan, Sirmaur, and Kangra. The monsoon is expected to peter out starting tomorrow.
Over the last three days, 55 people have died in incidents related to heavy rains, landslides and cloudbursts. Over 950 roads have been closed at various places. Due to this, transport services have been disrupted on more than 2,100 routes. It has become difficult for people to move from one place to another.
Several stretches across the Chandigarh-Manali, Shimla-Dharamshala, Paonta-Shillai and Mandi National Highways have also been closed due to landslides. While transport was restore in some areas, landslides have been occurring frequently along these highways. The Chandigarh-Manali four-lane has been closed for five days. However, the movement of small vehicles has been restored this morning through Kataula. Due to these road closures, many areas have not received a supply of milk, curd, bread, butter or vegetables for three days. In view of the condition of the roads, the government declared a holiday in government and private educational institutions yesterday. Pharmacy, Polytechnic, ITI and Engineering colleges remained closed. A holiday has been declared in educational institutions of Chamba district today as well. At the same time, academic activities have been suspended at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) till 19 August.
During this year’s monsoon, 283 people have lost their lives in the state, while 290 others have been injured. Thirty-two people are missing after being hit by landslides and flash floods. So far, 1,376 houses have collapsed in the state, while 7,935 houses have been damaged. Many of these houses have also been evacuated.
