Monsoon havoc in Himachal Pradesh: Kullu District devastated by heavy rains

Dharamshala/Kullu, August 1, 2024: The monsoon is in full swing across Himachal Pradesh, bringing heavy rains that have battered the state over the past two days. The most severe impact was witnessed in Kullu district on Wednesday night, where relentless rain caused widespread devastation.

Bagipul area in the Nirmand subdivision has been particularly hard hit. Floods in Kurpan Khad have demolished nine houses in the area, with seven to ten people reported missing, including seven members of the same family. Additionally, 8-10 houses, along with the Patwar Khana, hotels, and shops, have been swept away. The extent of the destruction is still being assessed, with reports of several people being washed away in different locations. Rescue operations have been underway since morning, with the Tehsildar on site overseeing efforts.

Two bridges in Bagipul have also been destroyed by the floodwaters. One of these bridges, which had just been completed and was awaiting inauguration, has been washed away. The bus stand in Bagipul has been obliterated, and 15 vehicles have been lost to the floods. In Kedas village, there are also reports of houses being washed away.

The situation in Malana is similarly dire. Heavy water flow from a dam in the area has caused further devastation, including the destruction of bridges and homes. While there have been no reported casualties so far, the rising water levels of the Parvati and Beas rivers are causing significant concern. The Pin Parvati river in Sainj has also seen a substantial increase in water levels, heightening the risk of further damage.

The water level of the Parvati river has risen above the danger mark, prompting authorities to issue evacuation orders. Residents in Jiya, Bhuntar, and other areas along the riverbanks have been urged to move to safer locations.
 
Himachal Pradesh Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi confirmed the extensive damage caused by heavy rains and cloudbursts. "Road connectivity in the affected areas has been disrupted, with four bridges and footbridges washed away. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the apple crops have also suffered significant destruction," Negi said.
 
Efforts are continuing to assess the full scale of the damage and to locate and assist those who have been affected by this natural disaster.