The Indian Army has intensified its relief and rescue operations in Himachal Pradesh’s flood-devastated Mandi district, where continuous monsoon rains have led to massive infrastructure breakdowns and a rising death toll. In partnership with the SDRF, NDRF, and local authorities, Army columns are delivering essential aid and restoring connectivity to isolated regions.
Personnel have been deployed across severely affected areas such as Thunag, Bagsiad, and Pandoh. At Thunag, Army teams provided medical aid and distributed ration kits to displaced families. Remote villages like Degi, Rushad, and Chapad, which were cut off due to floodwaters, have also started receiving supplies after days of isolation.
A crucial mule track between Bagsiad and Thunag was cleared, enabling the movement of relief material. Despite weak mobile network coverage in areas like Thunag, Army teams have maintained communication through satellite systems such as ISAT phones and RS STARSV terminals.
The monsoon fury has so far claimed 85 lives in the state 54 due to landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, and 31 from rain-related road accidents. The State Disaster Management Authority reports that the continuous downpour has left large portions of the state paralyzed.
In the last 24 hours alone, 204 roads have been blocked, including the key National Highway NH-003 that connects Mandi to Dharampur. Power supply has been hit hard, with 192 distribution transformers affected, while 740 water supply schemes have been disrupted, severely impacting local populations.
Mandi remains the most affected district, with major damage to roads, power lines, and drinking water infrastructure. Emergency services are on high alert, focusing on restoring critical services and reaching stranded communities.
Top officials, including the Chief Minister and the Indian Army’s Brigade Commander, are expected to visit affected zones to review ground operations and strengthen coordination among agencies. As the rains continue, the state remains in a high-risk zone, demanding round-the-clock response and recovery efforts.