Shimla (Himachal Pradesh): The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has reported that 306 people have died in Himachal Pradesh due to monsoon-related incidents between June 20 and August 25.
According to the cumulative loss report released on Monday, 156 of these deaths were caused by natural disasters such as landslides, flash floods, and electrocution, while 150 were the result of road accidents.
The report also highlighted the significant economic impact of the monsoon, estimating total losses at ₹2,39,428.50 lakh. In addition to human casualties, 25,755 poultry birds and 1,843 other animals perished.
Private property suffered considerable damage, with losses estimated at ₹3,372.05 lakh. This includes 2,819 houses completely destroyed and 1,641 partially damaged. Crop losses were calculated at ₹2,743.47 lakh.
Public property was heavily affected as well. The Public Works Department reported losses of ₹13,1079.7 lakh, the Jal Shakti Vibhag ₹81,385.2 lakh, and the electricity department ₹13,946.69 lakh. Damage to roads was estimated at ₹66 lakh.
The SDMA recorded 199 disaster incidents across the state, with the highest number reported in Kullu and Lahaul and Spiti districts. These included 81 landslides, 77 flash floods, and 41 cloudbursts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi districts over the next 48 hours. Orange and yellow alerts have been issued for other districts.
According to the latest IMD forecast, the red alert remains in effect for Chamba and Kangra on Tuesday, while Mandi shifts to an orange alert along with Kullu. Earlier, orange alerts were also issued for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Kullu, with yellow alerts in place for Solan and Shimla.
