The IMD has identified these areas as critical zones at risk of further flash floods...
Digital Desk: Himachal Pradesh was struck by a devastating cloudburst on Thursday, mostly affecting the districts of Mandi, Shimla, and Kullu. The aftermath has been grim, with approximately 50 people reported missing and five casualties confirmed so far. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'red' alert for Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi, expecting more rainfall on Friday.
Weather Alerts and Impact
Onkar Chand Sharma, the Additional Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh, has underscored the severity of the situation, maintaining a heavy rain warning until August 2. Specific orange alerts have been issued for Kangra and several other districts, including Sirmaur, Solan, Mandi, and Shimla. The IMD has identified these areas as critical zones at risk of further flash floods.
State of Emergency and Rescue Operations
The flash floods triggered by the cloudbursts have necessitated immediate action. The collapse of the Malana Dam on the Parvati River exacerbated the crisis, causing extensive damage to homes, temples, and agricultural lands in the region. Efforts to rescue more than 45 missing individuals are currently underway across the affected districts. As of Thursday night, 29 people have been successfully rescued from precarious situations, such as the site of a power project.
Rescue operations are being conducted with the coordinated efforts of the army, NDRF, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, State Disaster Response Force, local police, and home guards. The deployment of drones has proven instrumental in locating missing persons amidst challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions.
Government Response and Support
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has assured the public that rescue and relief operations are operating at full capacity. He highlighted the critical need for sunlight to facilitate faster operations, including the recovery of bodies trapped under debris. With around 49 individuals still unaccounted for, Sukhu emphasized caution, urging tourists to avoid waterfalls and rivers.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has pledged full support, dispatching additional NDRF teams to bolster ongoing rescue efforts. The Indian Army has also mobilized resources, sending multiple teams equipped with specialized personnel and medical support to the worst-hit areas in the Shimla district.
Forecast and Continued Vigilance
Looking ahead, the IMD has issued forecasts predicting continued rainfall across Himachal Pradesh on Friday. Palampur recorded the highest rainfall at 212 mm, with other areas like Chauri, Dharamshala, and Jogindernagar also experiencing substantial precipitation. Shimla received 64.6 mm, while Sainj saw 61 mm of rainfall, underscoring the widespread nature of the weather system.
As Himachal Pradesh grapples with the aftermath of unprecedented cloudbursts and ensuing flash floods, the focus remains on swift rescue operations and ensuring the safety of residents and tourists alike. The collaboration between multiple agencies and the proactive measures taken by the state and central governments illustrate a concerted effort to mitigate further damage and provide immediate relief to affected communities. The coming days will be crucial as authorities continue their vigilant watch over the weather and intensify efforts to locate those still missing in this natural disaster's wake.
Leave A Comment