"Following Kangana Ranaut's comment about a Rs 50 business loss in a restaurant amid flood-struck Mandi: Backlash swells"
In the past few weeks, Himachal Pradesh has been grappling with its worst monsoon in recent years. The state has experienced an alarming number of cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides, causing extensive damage and displacing thousands of people.
According to the latest reports, at least 417 people have lost their lives, with 231 deaths directly attributed to rain-related incidents and 181 due to road accidents. More than 1,500 houses have been destroyed, and over 6,500 have been partially damaged. The estimated losses due to the floods are nearing ₹4,582 crore.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh yellow alert for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning in Bilaspur, Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur districts. On Tuesday evening, 655 roads, including stretches of three national highways, remained shut. Power and water supply were disrupted across vast regions, adding to the hardships of the affected population.
The Public Works Department and Jal Shakti Department have suffered the worst damage. Authorities remain on high alert due to blocked roads, damaged homes, and the looming threat of more landslides. The authorities are working tirelessly to restore essential services and provide relief to the affected communities.
Amidst this crisis, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut visited flood-ravaged areas in her Lok Sabha constituency. Her visit sparked criticism from locals who accused her of being insensitive. Protesters in Patlikuhal chanted slogans against her, alleging she had not reached out to them earlier during the floods.
Ranaut, however, shared her own struggle, stating her Manali restaurant once earned only ₹50 in a day despite paying ₹15 lakh in staff salaries. She expressed her empathy towards the people affected by the floods and promised to do her best to help them in their time of need.
The IMD has reported that since June 20, Himachal Pradesh has recorded 46% above-normal rainfall. With the continued threat of heavy rainfall and potential landslides, the state government and relief agencies are urging people to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines. The people of Himachal Pradesh are hoping for a respite from the relentless monsoon rains and a swift return to normalcy.
