Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – August 1, 2024 – Massive cloudbursts in the districts of Shimla, Kullu, and Mandi in Himachal Pradesh have resulted in the death of two people and left at least 53 others missing. The cloudbursts have caused widespread destruction, damaging numerous houses, schools, and hospitals, and leading to significant infrastructure damage.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu confirmed the casualty figures and stated that relief and rescue operations are underway. “NDRF, SDRF, DCs, and officials are present at the spot. We have instructed the officials to make all arrangements and have also sought help from the army. I appeal to people not to go near canals and rivers. The Air Force has been asked to be ready,” said CM Sukhu. He assured that the situation is under control despite the damages and loss of connectivity in Manali.
A building housing a vegetable market collapsed on the Manikaran-Bhuntar road, further highlighting the extent of the devastation. In Shimla, a cloudburst near a hydroelectric power project at Samej Khad has resulted in at least 20 people going missing, with disaster response teams and top officials rushing to the site.
Mandi district, located about 125 km from Shimla, also experienced cloudbursts causing road blockades and landslides. Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan has ordered the closure of all educational institutions and vocational training centers in the affected areas for safety.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation and has directed officials to provide all possible assistance to those affected.
Monsoon-related incidents have also impacted Uttarakhand, with cloudbursts in Tehri Garhwal and Haridwar causing further casualties and injuries. Rescue operations are ongoing in all affected areas.
