Himachal Pradesh monsoon mayhem: Toll climbs to 310 — 158 rain deaths, 152 in road mishaps; losses top Rs 2,623 crore

NEW DELHI: The ongoing monsoon season in Himachal Pradesh has claimed 310 lives since June 20, according to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). Of these, 158 deaths were due to rain-related incidents such as landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, drowning, electrocution and other weather-triggered disasters, while 152 deaths were the result of road accidents.


The cumulative SDMA report, covering the period from June 20 to August 27, also recorded 369 injured and 38 missing persons. The rains have devastated livestock, with 1,852 animals and 25,755 poultry birds reported lost.

Losses pegged at over Rs 2,623 crore

Public and private property damage has been extensive. Losses to public infrastructure — including roads, power lines, and water supply schemes — stand at Rs 2,44,000 lakh, while damages to private property such as houses, shops, cow sheds, and crops are valued at Rs 18,000 lakh. The total estimated loss is Rs 2,62,336.38 lakh.

51 deaths in Mandi

Mandi has recorded the highest fatalities with 51 deaths (29 rain-related, 22 road accidents), along with severe damage to homes, agriculture, and power infrastructure. Kangra reported 49 deaths, followed by Chamba (36 deaths) and Shimla (28 deaths).

Causes of rain-related deaths

The 158 rain-related deaths include:

• 33 from drowning

• 17 from cloudbursts

• 12 from electrocution

• 10 from landslides

• others from flash floods, snakebites, and accidental falls.

Connectivity, power and water supply hit

As of Wednesday evening, 582 roads — including two national highways — remained blocked across the state. 1,155 electricity distribution transformers (DTRs) were disrupted, and 346 water supply schemes were out of service.

• Kullu reported the highest road blockages (166), including NH-03 and NH-305.

• Power supply disruptions were worst in Mandi (295 DTRs) and Kullu (841 DTRs).

• Drinking water schemes were most affected in Kullu (88 disrupted) and Mandi (64 disrupted).

Authorities cautioned that the death toll could rise further if heavy rains continue into September. Restoration work remains difficult due to recurring landslides and unstable slopes in Kullu, Mandi, and Kinnaur.

District administrations have been directed to prioritise the restoration of essential services and maintain emergency shelters for stranded residents and travellers.

(With agency inputs)