Torrential rains, multiple cloudbursts, and flash floods have wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in Mandi district, where 10 people have died and 34 remain missing in the past 32 hours, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC).
In its Monsoon Situation Report issued at 8 AM on Tuesday, the SEOC revealed that the state has experienced 16 incidents of cloudbursts and flash floods, with Mandi district emerging as the epicentre of the monsoon disaster. Most of the damage has been reported from the Thunag, Karsog, and Gohar subdivisions, where cloudbursts have caused severe destruction to property and lives.
In Sianj (Gohar), two houses were washed away, and nine people went missing—two bodies have been recovered so far. At Kutti Bypass in Karsog, two people lost their lives, while two others are still missing. Seven people were successfully evacuated to safer locations.
Search and rescue operations are in full swing, with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams deployed in the affected areas of Karsog, Gohar, and Thunag. Authorities are working round-the-clock to locate the missing and provide emergency relief.
In Balha village (Hamirpur) near the Beas River, flash floods left several families stranded. “Police teams have rescued 51 people, including 30 workers and 21 local residents,” SEOC confirmed.
Relief efforts are ongoing across the region. Emergency shelters have been set up, and essential supplies such as tents, blankets, and food are being distributed. In Trimbala (Serthi) village of Dharampur, 17 families who lost livestock and property due to the cloudburst have received aid.
“The situation remains critical in many parts of Mandi. Both NDRF and SDRF teams are actively engaged in search and rescue operations throughout the district,” SEOC stated.
Meanwhile, the central government is closely monitoring rainfall and river levels in the state. Particular attention is being paid to Juni Khad, where water levels are currently above the danger mark.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting more rain in the coming days, residents in high-risk areas have been urged to stay alert and follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities.
The disaster underscores the increasing vulnerability of hilly regions to extreme weather events, raising concerns about preparedness and climate resilience in the Himalayan belt.