Himachal Pradesh: 107 roads have been closed due to heavy rainfall

Himachal Pradesh : Heavy rains have continued to impact Himachal Pradesh, leading to the closure of 107 roads and disruptions in 91 power schemes and 36 water schemes as of Monday. Since the onset of the monsoon on June 27, rain-related incidents have claimed 126 lives, and the state has faced losses estimated at ₹1,173 crore.

The Shimla Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain in isolated areas until August 21. The alert highlights the potential for damage to crops, plantations, vulnerable structures, and kutcha houses.

According to the state emergency operation centre, road closures include 48 in Shimla, 24 each in Mandi and Kullu, seven in Kangra, two in Kinnaur, and one each in Sirmaur and Una districts. The severe weather has led to disruptions in power and water supplies statewide.

Rainfall data from Sunday evening to Monday 5 pm shows Naina Devi as the wettest location with 142.6 mm of rainfall, followed by Baijnath at 120 mm, Guler at 78.4 mm, and Ghaghas at 60.4 mm. Other notable rainfall figures include Bilaspur (60.7 mm), Jogindernagar (57 mm), Bharari (50.4 mm), Dharamshala (51.8 mm), Berthin (51 mm), Palampur (47 mm), Kangra (44.8 mm), Sundernagar (33.6 mm), Mandi (34.5 mm), Shimla (22.5 mm), and Chamba (21 mm).

As of August 16, Himachal Pradesh had a rainfall deficit of 22%, receiving 41.8 cm of rainfall against the average of 53.54 cm for the same period. On Monday, Kukumseri in Lahaul and Spiti recorded the coldest night temperature at 9.8°C, while Una experienced the highest temperature of 33.4°C.