Shimla (National Times): The monsoon season has left a trail of devastation in Himachal Pradesh, where 312 people have died since June 20, according to the latest figures from the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). While 160 deaths were directly linked to weather-triggered tragedies like landslides, flash floods, and electrocution, another 152 fatalities occurred in road mishaps worsened by rain-damaged terrain.
The calamity has caused unprecedented financial strain, with total losses estimated at Rs 2.75 lakh crore. The destruction spans across roads, power lines, irrigation projects, private property, farms, and livestock, underlining the severe impact on both infrastructure and livelihoods. Nearly 1,900 cattle and over 25,000 poultry birds have also perished.
The district-wise breakdown shows Kangra at the top of the list with 30 weather-related deaths, followed closely by Mandi (29). Fatalities have also been significant in Chamba, Kinnaur, and Kullu. Meanwhile, Chamba and Mandi each recorded 22 road accident deaths, highlighting how treacherous travel has become in the state.
Government data reveals that the Public Works Department (PWD) alone has reported damages worth over Rs 1.5 lakh crore, while the Jal Shakti Department faces losses nearing Rs 95,000 crore. The power sector has taken a hit of more than Rs 13,900 crore, with education, health, and rural development infrastructure also severely affected.
Housing losses remain substantial, with hundreds of homes destroyed or partially damaged, alongside shops, cowsheds, and farmland. Officials said restoration of road connectivity, electricity, and drinking water supply is underway, but warned that the toll may climb if rains persist in high-risk zones.
