Monsoon disruptions in Himachal: 399 roads, 704 power lines, 178 water schemes hit

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 9 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh remains in the grip of severe monsoon disruptions, with 399 roads, including one national highway, blocked, 704 electricity distribution transformers (DTRs) down, and 178 water supply schemes affected as of Saturday morning, according to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA).
The SDMA said the ongoing monsoon havoc has claimed 208 lives so far this season--112 in rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, and house collapses, and 96 in road accidents.
Among the worst-hit districts are Mandi, with 240 road blockages and 300 disrupted power lines, and Kullu, where 99 roads are closed, including the NH-305 at Jhed (Khanag) due to a landslide.
In Kangra, 72 transformers remain non-functional, while Shimla, Sirmaur, Chamba, Solan, Bilaspur, and Una have also reported multiple blockages and utility outages.
Restoration work is underway in all affected districts, but heavy rains continue to hamper efforts, with alternative routes and temporary repairs being used to maintain connectivity and essential services, the SDMA added.
Meanwhile, an incident of cloudburst was reported in the Sharod Nala area of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh on Friday, as per the information received from the Central Water Commission, Mohal.
According to the information received from Hemraj (N.T Jari), Fire Station Jari, Assistant Engineer, Public Works Department Manikaran, and DPCR Kullu, the water level in Barogi Nala, adjoining Sharod Nala, has risen due to rainfall.
No reports of any loss of life have been received so far. The situation is currently normal as per the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Kullu.
Emergency services continue to operate across the state, with restoration efforts underway, but persistent rain is hampering progress. The SDMA has urged residents to remain cautious and avoid travel unless necessary, particularly in landslide-prone areas.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh warning of continued rainfall activity in Himachal Pradesh, with heavy rain expected in many parts of the state over the next few days. The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for August 11 and 12 in three districts and a Yellow Alert for the remaining districts. (ANI)