Himachal Pradesh monsoon toll rises: 155 dead, 37 missing; 484 roads including 2 highways closed, schools shut in 5 districts

NEW DELHI: Heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has led to widespread disruption, with authorities closing educational institutions in five districts and 484 roads, including two national highways, remaining shut for vehicles.

The local weather office has issued a yellow warning for heavy rain in isolated areas across multiple districts until August 30.Schools and colleges were closed in Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Mandi, Una, and Solan districts following the weather alert. The closure orders were issued late Sunday night in Hamirpur and Una, while parents in Bilaspur, Mandi, and Solan were informed Monday morning.Several parts of the state have experienced moderate to heavy rains since Sunday night.

The road closures include 245 in Mandi district and 102 in Kullu. National Highway 154 A, connecting Chamba and Pathankot, and NH 305, linking Aut and Sainj, were also closed.The State Emergency Operation Centre reported that 941 power supply transformers and 95 water supply schemes have been affected across the state.The monsoon season has taken a severe toll on the region. Since its onset on June 20 until August 24, 155 people have lost their lives in rain-related incidents, while 37 remain missing.

The state has witnessed 77 flash floods, 40 cloudbursts, and 79 major landslides during this period.The financial impact has been significant, with Himachal Pradesh suffering losses of Rs 2,348 crore due to rain-related incidents.The state has received above-average rainfall this monsoon season. Between June 1 and August 24, the recorded rainfall was 662.3 mm, compared to the usual average of 571.4 mm, marking a 16 percent increase.The region continues to face challenges as authorities work to manage the ongoing situation and maintain essential services while ensuring public safety.