Himachal Pradesh reels from heavy rains: Death toll rises and damages estimated at $1.2bn

Unprecedented rainfall continues to lash the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, leading to devastating landslides and flooding. Over the past three days, Himachal Pradesh witnessed a surge in deaths, with the toll rising to 71—higher than the entirety of July. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts sustained heavy rains for Himachal over the next 48 hours and a grim five-day forecast for Uttarakhand.

Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, confirmed the evacuation of at least 1,100 individuals from high-risk areas. Areas including parts of Punjab, Kangra, and Shimla are experiencing the brunt of the downpour. Highlighting the scale of the catastrophe, CM Sukhu disclosed that the state has incurred losses around 100 billion rupees (approximately $1.2 billion) due to the incessant rains.

In Kangra district, located close to Pong Dam, over 800 residents were evacuated as the water levels in the Beas River surpassed danger marks. The Chief Minister said, “About 100 people remain trapped in Kangra, and our rescue operations are in full swing.

The aftermath has resulted in damages nearing ₹10,000 crores. Rebuilding the state’s infrastructure is a year-long endeavor.” As a safety measure, the state government decreed the closure of educational institutions. The state’s Education Department issued a statement, “Given the adverse weather conditions, all schools & colleges in Himachal Pradesh will remain shut on 16th August, 2023.”

The persistent rainfall in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand is attributed to the shifting monsoon trough—an elongated region of low pressure. CM Sukhu revealed that an overwhelming 157% increase in rainfall over the recent days has inflicted widespread destruction across Himachal Pradesh.

However, showcasing resilience, he affirmed, “The challenge is daunting, but our resolve remains firm. Our vision is to transform Himachal Pradesh into India’s most affluent state in the next decade.” Addressing infrastructural shortcomings, he noted, “It’s not that rivers invaded homes, but that homes were built too close to rivers. There’s an imperative need to fortify our regulations, and we’re poised to take swift action.”