Heavy monsoon rains have intensified problems in Himachal Pradesh, blocking 259 roads and causing 157 deaths from landslides and related incidents. Nearly 900 properties and public works have suffered damage, with total losses estimated at Rs 886 crore, according to the latest State Emergency Operations Centre report covering June 30 to August 9. Of the fatalities, 68 resulted from landslides and flash floods, while 89 occurred in road accidents. Another 257 people remain missing. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy rain in five districts. Power supply has been disrupted, with 161 distribution transformers out of service for over a week, mainly in Mandi (77), Shimla (43) and Kullu (40). Rising river levels in Kullu have produced scenes of debris flows and flash floods carrying away vehicles and temporary bridges. Landslides have closed 259 roads, including the Mandi-Kullu highway, with Mandi recording 120 closures, followed by Chamba (42), Kullu (40) and Shimla (30). Authorities are working to restore access, yet ongoing rain and fresh slides continue to obstruct efforts. Drinking water schemes have also been hit, with 54 affected overall, including 33 in Shimla, 16 in Chamba and five in Hamirpur. An orange alert for heavy rain covers Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur, Shimla and Sirmaur, while moderate to heavy rain is forecast for Chamba, Kullu, Solan and Bilaspur.
