Himachal in Crisis: A Monsoon That Changed Lives Forever
The monsoon arrived in Himachal Pradesh on June 20—and with it came devastation that has left families shattered, homes destroyed, and entire communities struggling to survive. In just 20 days, relentless rains have turned peaceful villages into disaster zones, especially in Mandi district’s Seraj, Thunag, Janjehli, and Bagsyad regions.
Hundreds of homes have crumbled into the earth. Lives have been lost. Families are mourning loved ones swept away by flash floods and landslides. Many are still missing, their families clinging to hope. Over 880 animals have perished, and the emotional toll is immeasurable.
Nature’s Fury Unleashed
The weather department has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in several districts including Una, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur. Rainfall between 5 to 15 cm in hilly areas and 6 to 12 cm in the plains is expected. For many, this warning is not just a forecast—it’s a reminder of the trauma they’ve already endured.
Lives Lost, Families Torn Apart
Since the monsoon began, 85 people have died across the state. Mandi alone has lost 20 lives. Others districts—Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan, and Una—have all reported fatalities. Thirty-four people are still missing, and 129 have been injured. Behind each number is a story of heartbreak.
Entire homes—431 in total—have been wiped out. Shops, cowsheds, and water supply systems have collapsed. Families have lost not just shelter, but livelihoods and memories built over generations.
A State Under Siege
Himachal has faced 22 cloudbursts, 31 flash floods, and 17 landslides this season. The damage is staggering—₹739.12 crore in losses. The Water Resources Department alone has suffered over ₹400 crore in damages, with hundreds of drinking water schemes disrupted. Roads are broken, retaining walls have collapsed, and 174 routes remain blocked, cutting off access to essential services.
Resilience Amid Ruin
Despite the destruction, the spirit of Himachal’s people remains unbroken. Communities are coming together, helping one another rebuild, and holding onto hope. Relief efforts are underway, but the road to recovery will be long.
This monsoon has not just reshaped the landscape—it has reshaped lives. And as the rains continue, so does the fight to survive, rebuild, and heal.
