A cloudburst has wreaked havoc in the Samej Khad area of Rampur region in Shimla district, leaving 36 people missing. The disaster has caused severe disruption, with roads washed away and a hydro power project damaged. Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap confirmed the immediate deployment of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and other rescue teams to the site. Drones are being used to aid in the search for the missing individuals.
The HP Traffic, Tourist & Railways Police have issued an advisory urging people to stay away from riverbanks during the monsoon season due to the rising water levels in the Beas River. The Pandoh and Larji Dams are releasing water to manage the increased flow and silt. The advisory specifically cautions about the dangers of high water levels and advises keeping children and animals away from the riverbanks.
The regional meteorological office has issued an ‘orange’ alert, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, along with thunderstorms and lightning, in isolated areas across all districts of Himachal Pradesh, except for Kinnaur and Lahaul & Spiti. There are heightened concerns about landslides and flash floods in vulnerable areas of Kullu, Solan, Sirmaur, Shimla, and Kinnaur districts.
The weather office has also warned of potential damage to crops, plantations, fragile structures, and unpaved houses due to strong winds and waterlogging in low-lying regions.
The situation remains critical as rescue operations continue and authorities work to mitigate the impact of the severe weather conditions in the region. The people of Himachal Pradesh are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to safety advisories issued by local authorities.