At least 78 individuals have perished in Himachal Pradesh since the monsoon began on June 20, as reported by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). Among these, 50 fatalities were attributed to rain-related events such as landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, while 28 deaths occurred due to road accidents.

“The total number of casualties from various monsoon-related disasters in Himachal Pradesh has reached 78 as of July 6,” stated the State Disaster Management Authority.

The rain-related tragedies include 14 fatalities from flash floods, eight from drowning, eight due to electrocution and accidental falls, along with smaller figures from landslides, lightning strikes, and snake bites.

Mandi district recorded the highest number of rain-related deaths at 17, followed by Kangra with 11. Other districts severely impacted include Kullu (3 deaths), Chamba (3), and Shimla (3).

The road accidents, which resulted in 28 fatalities, were reported across various districts, with Chamba having the highest toll at six, followed by Bilaspur, Kullu, and Kangra. In addition to human losses, the state has experienced extensive infrastructural and economic damage.

According to SDMA data, 269 roads have been blocked, 285 power transformers have been impacted, and 278 water supply schemes have been disrupted. The estimated total loss to public and private property exceeds Rs 57 crore.

Monsoon-related incidents have also caused crop losses, damage to homes and cowsheds, and interruptions in health and education services.

Authorities have deployed teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to critical areas. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, particularly in Mandi and Kullu where individuals are reported missing.

The SDMA is closely monitoring the situation and is urging residents to remain vigilant as rainfall continues across the state.