Rescue operation underway after landslide strikes Shimla’s Summer Hill area

On 16 August, Wednesday, a massive landslide was reported in Shimla’s Summer Hill area, according to an official. As soon as the word of the incident got out, a search and rescue operation was launched and sniffer dogs and rescuers were present at the spot at the time of filing this report.

There were no reports of any casualties or injuries when the incident occurred, however, further updates are still awaited.

Earlier, on 15 August, Tuesday, the Indian Air Force airdropped 18 army soldiers in a single ride to facilitate the rescue operation in the affected areas following landslides in Shimla.

On Tuesday, the Indian Air Force issued a statement saying, “A Chinook helicopter of Western Air Command airlifted 18 Indian Army personnel and a 3-Ton Mini Dozer in a single sortie for rescue efforts in areas affected by landslides near Himachal Pradesh’s Shimla today.”

Continuous heavy rainfalls are carrying on to wreak havoc in several parts of Himachal Pradesh, resulting in severe damage to buildings and properties.

On Tuesday, 5 to 7 houses collapsed in Shimla’s Krishna Nagar area after a landslide. As per the officials, some residents were suspected to be trapped in the debris, and NDRF, SDRF, and state police personnel continued the rescue operations.

Shimla SP Sanjeev Gandhi said, “Our primary focus is to rescue more and more people. One casualty has been reported so far. All agencies are working to save lives. About 10-15 houses have been vacated and the occupants shifted to safe places. The loss of property is yet to be ascertained.”