Himachal Pradesh is currently witnessing one of its most intense and destructive monsoon seasons in recent memory. With the official death toll rising to 75 and infrastructure damage crossing hundreds of crores, the situation has prompted the state government and disaster management authorities to issue a red alert in several districts. Among those affected are popular tourist regions like Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur, all of which are under threat due to extreme rainfall, flash floods, and recurring landslides.
Between June 20 and July 4, the state has recorded 45 rain related deaths while the remaining casualties include accidents triggered by the severe weather such as electrocution, gas explosions, and road mishaps. More than 280 people have been reported injured, and many are still missing, especially in hard hit districts like Mandi.
The India Meteorological Department has issued red alerts for extremely heavy rainfall in Kangra, Sirmaur, and Mandi. Orange alerts are in place for Una, Solan, Hamirpur, Shimla, Chamba, Kullu, and Bilaspur. Authorities have warned of the possibility of more landslides, blocked highways, and flash floods that could further worsen conditions. Waterlogging, agricultural losses, and service disruptions have already been reported, especially in rural and hilly terrains where access is limited.
The scale of damage has been overwhelming. The State Emergency Operations Centre has estimated losses worth over five hundred crore rupees, covering public infrastructure, road systems, and private homes. Fields of crops and orchards in agricultural belts have also suffered extensive damage. Farmers and local residents now face not only the threat of physical destruction but also the economic burden of recovery in the months to come.
Rescue efforts are being carried out by the National Disaster Response Force and the Indo Tibetan Border Police in critical areas like Thunag village in Mandi, which experienced multiple flash flood and landslide events in one day. The local administration, supported by the State Disaster Response Force, is delivering medical kits, food supplies, and essential goods to displaced families. In person medical aid is also being extended in cut off locations.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has declared that all relief and rescue operations must continue on a war footing. The state’s top priority remains restoring essential services, opening blocked roads, and ensuring that relief materials reach villages that are either partially submerged or isolated due to debris. The Chief Minister has urged locals and tourists to stay updated through official channels and follow all safety advisories.
Travellers are strongly advised to avoid non essential trips to Himachal Pradesh until the situation stabilises. The current monsoon activity is making it nearly impossible to navigate key routes or ensure uninterrupted access to medical and safety infrastructure. Popular travel destinations such as Manali, Dharamshala, Kasol, and Shimla fall within areas either directly affected or under high alert. In light of this, tourism to these spots is not only unsafe but could also hamper ongoing relief efforts.
The current crisis is a stark reminder of the importance of weather awareness and climate preparedness in hill regions. As the monsoon season continues through July and August, both residents and tourists are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow government updates, and avoid any travel that could place them or others at risk.
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