Himachal Pradesh is grappling with a severe natural calamity after a powerful cloudburst triggered sudden flash floods, killing at least five people and leaving several others missing across Kullu and Kangra districts. The intense rainfall event, which unfolded late Wednesday night, caused significant destruction to homes, roads, and essential infrastructure, especially in remote mountainous regions.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu confirmed that five people have died, with three still missing in Kullu alone. In one hopeful development, a missing person was found alive after taking shelter in a nearby forest. Search and rescue teams, including disaster response personnel, are racing against time as heavy rains continue to lash parts of the state.
“The region is steep and difficult to navigate, but rescue operations are in full swing,” CM Sukhu said. “We are particularly focusing efforts in Dharamshala and the upper reaches of Kangra, where the situation remains critical.”
Widespread Damage to Infrastructure
The impact has been particularly brutal on the rural road network and power infrastructure. CM Sukhu confirmed that 15 houses have suffered extensive structural damage. Power facilities in Kangra have also been hit, and some of the missing individuals are believed to be employees of a local power project, adding urgency to the ongoing operations.
The Chief Minister called the destruction “alarming,” but also praised the swift coordination between local authorities, emergency services, and the administration. He noted that all state departments had been instructed in advance to remain on high alert during the monsoon season & say “We are not discouraging travel, but caution is vital, especially given recent events. Nature is unpredictable, and we must stay alert”.
Amid Himachal’s ongoing monsoon tourism season, Sukhu reassured visitors that travel to the state is still safe, but strongly urged tourists to avoid riverbanks, waterfalls, and flood-prone zones in light of continued Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) warnings of heavy rain until July 1.
Weather Alerts and Preparedness
The IMD has issued a red alert for isolated heavy downpours in parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Mandi, Kangra, Chamba, Kullu, and Shimla districts, over the next 48 hours. Authorities have been asked to monitor water levels in rivers and reservoirs and issue evacuation orders if necessary.
The government has mobilized emergency shelters, medical teams, and helicopter support where required. Local administrations in Kullu and Kangra have been directed to identify vulnerable households and ensure they are relocated to safer ground.