Relentless rainfall has battered Himachal Pradesh since Friday evening, leading to the closure of over 400 roads and triggering flash floods, landslides, and infrastructure damage across several districts.
Mandi and Chamba Hit Hard
In Mandi district, where major routes like the Kullu-Manali highway pass, authorities closed 174 roads due to severe weather. Similarly, in Chamba, more than 100 roads became impassable, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC).
Ongoing rainfall caused Intense flooding near Malana Power Project, Himachal Pradesh, india— A fierce river surge triggered by heavy rains has swept away multiple vehicles. pic.twitter.com/NTrVil8CGZ
— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) August 2, 2025
The Beas River and its tributaries overflowed, raising alarm. In Hamirpur district, a section of a bridge near Sujanpur Tira developed cracks because of the swollen river.
Flash Flood Washes Away Vehicles
One of the most disturbing incidents came from Kullu, where flash floods breached part of the cofferdam at the Malana-II Hydropower project. Viral videos captured heavy machinery—a dumper truck, a rock breaker—and even a car being swept away by the fierce Malana river current.
Worrisome visuals coming from Malana Power Project Himachal — river in full fury after heavy rain, multiple vehicles washed away! IMD has issued alert for heavy rains in the next 3–4 hours.
— Nikhil saini (@iNikhilsaini) August 1, 2025
Stay safe, stay alert! pic.twitter.com/YahzrpRYAk
Una Records Highest Rainfall
Una district, located in the lower hills bordering Punjab, recorded the heaviest rainfall at 260.8 mm. Floodwater submerged roads and markets, prompting officials to shut all educational institutions until further notice. The Chandigarh-Dharamshala National Highway also saw significant flooding in this region.
Government on Alert
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said that the administration is actively monitoring the crisis. “The state government is on full alert and is constantly monitoring the situation,” he said. He added that officials had been told to take swift action to ensure public safety in affected areas.
Damage Assessment and Losses
Since the start of the monsoon season on June 20, Himachal Pradesh has suffered an estimated loss of ₹1,692 crore, officials reported. The rainfall has led to the deaths of 101 people, while 36 individuals remain missing. The state also reported that 1,600 houses have either collapsed or suffered partial damage.
Officials further confirmed that Himachal has witnessed 51 flash floods, 28 cloudbursts, and 45 major landslides so far during this monsoon.
Governor Visits Affected Areas
On Saturday, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla visited some of the worst-hit locations in Mandi district. He met families impacted by the disaster and took stock of the situation.
"The people of Himachal Pradesh have always shown remarkable courage and resilience in the face of adversity. The administration is working with urgency and dedication to provide relief and restore normalcy," the Governor said, according to PTI.