In a significant impact of the ongoing monsoon, as many as 76 roads have been closed and 69 water supply schemes have been hampered due to heavy rainfall and landslides in Himachal Pradesh. The situation has also disrupted 34 electricity supply schemes, leaving many areas without power. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a reduction in rainfall from July 8 onwards, providing a glimmer of hope for the affected regions.
The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has been closely monitoring the situation since June 27. The recent closures and disruptions have been severe, exacerbating the challenges faced by the local population. On July 4, the State experienced the heavy onset of the monsoon, leading to the closure of 115 roads and the disruption of 212 electricity schemes.
The state’s Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Chand Sharma, providing an update on the situation, emphasized the proactive measures taken by the government. “Monsoon has approached the State. So far, 115 roads have been closed due to heavy rain, and 212 electricity transformers have been affected, hampering the electricity supply. Additionally, 17 water supply schemes have also been disrupted,” Sharma said.
Sharma assured the public that the government is working diligently to address the situation. “We have prepared and pre-positioned men, material, and machinery at various locations. We are making efforts to clear the roads as quickly as possible,” he stated. The administration has been mobilizing resources to ensure swift restoration of essential services and infrastructure.
The adverse weather conditions have also raised concerns for tourists visiting the scenic state. Sharma urged the tourists to exercise caution and adhere to the local advisories issued. “I appeal to all visiting tourists to follow the advisories of the district administration and avoid visiting the rivers and streams. Even during summers, over 30 people had died due to drowning in the State,” he highlighted.
Reflecting on the previous year’s weather conditions, Sharma underscored the State Government’s readiness to tackle any potential emergencies. “Last year, there was 400 percent extra rainfall in the State, but due to the pre-positioning of men, material, and machinery, we were able to save lives. The IMD has forecasted a normal monsoon this year, and we hope not to face any extreme conditions. However, the State Government is ready for any eventuality,” he stated.
As the monsoon continues to batter Himachal Pradesh, the government remains vigilant and committed to mitigating the impact on its residents and infrastructure. The proactive measures and readiness displayed by the authorities aim to ensure the safety and well-being of the people, while efforts to restore normalcy are underway. The IMD's prediction of reduced rainfall from July 8 onwards brings a much-needed respite, offering hope for a swift recovery from the disruptions caused by the monsoon.