Heavy monsoon rains continue to batter Himachal Pradesh, leaving behind a trail of destruction across the hill state. The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA), in its latest report released Friday morning, confirmed that 455 roads including three national highways remain blocked due to landslides and flash floods.
Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts are the worst affected, with dozens of key routes snapped. A major landslide in Kullu has choked NH-305, adding to travel woes. Power supply has also been hit hard, with 681 distribution transformers out of service, while several water supply schemes, especially in Mandi, Kangra, and Shimla, are struggling to function.
Although no new casualties were reported in the last 24 hours, the overall toll from this monsoon season has climbed to 247 since June, according to the Department of Revenue-DM Cell. The losses extend beyond lives, with widespread damage to homes, infrastructure, and livestock. The financial impact is estimated at over ₹2,10,485 lakh.
Relief and restoration work is underway as authorities rush to clear blocked highways, restore electricity and water, and prevent further disruption. With the monsoon expected to linger, officials remain on high alert for fresh landslides and flash floods.