Monsoon Rampage in Himachal Pradesh: 241 deaths, over 300 impacted roads, and 70 DTRs (District Transport Representatives) disrupted due to the wrath of the seasonal rains.

Himachal Pradesh's Monsoon Woes: Infrastructure Restoration Challenged Amid Heavy Rains

As Himachal Pradesh grapples with the aftermath of severe monsoon rains, the restoration of critical infrastructure remains a significant challenge. The state has reportedly seen approximately 338 to 387 roads blocked, with districts like Mandi and Kullu being the most affected, with over 190 and more than 100 roads disrupted respectively [1][2][5].

The Chandigarh-Manali highway and Shimla-Mandi highway continue to face disruptions, with partial reopening but ongoing blockades at key points such as Jhalogi and sinking sections near Tattapani [1][4]. Power infrastructure is also severely impacted, with over 130 electricity transformers reported non-functional, especially concentrated in Kullu and Mandi districts, causing prolonged outages [1][2].

Water supply schemes remain disrupted, with about 141 to 186 schemes affected, notably in Sirmaur, Mandi, Kangra, and Chamba districts [1][2]. The Mandi district has reported the highest number of fatalities in rain-linked incidents (26) and road accident deaths (21) [1][2][6].

The state authorities, including the Public Works Department (PWD) and local administration, have been actively engaged in clearing roads, restoring electricity, and repairing water systems. However, progress is slow due to continuous rainfall and recurring landslides causing damages estimated in tens of crores of rupees in recent days [3].

Educational institutions remain closed in the worst-hit subdivisions as a precaution due to heavy rainfall alerts [1]. Search and rescue operations continue in flood-affected areas of Mandi district following cloudbursts and landslides, though no recent casualties have been reported in fresh incidents [4].

Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, a total of 240 deaths have been recorded in Himachal Pradesh. The total estimated financial loss to public and private property during this monsoon season is over Rs 2,03,000 lakh (Rs 2,031 crore) [7].

Authorities have warned that restoration efforts may face further delays if downpours persist [8]. As of the 5 pm State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) update, NH-305 in the Kullu district and NH-505 in Lahaul-Spiti are blocked [9]. Restoration work is underway on the water supply schemes, but continuing rains could hamper progress.

References:

[1] The Indian Express. (2025, August 22). Himachal Pradesh monsoon update: Over 300 roads disrupted in state, restoration work underway. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/himachal-pradesh-monsoon-update-over-300-roads-disrupted-in-state-restoration-work-underway-7981216/

[2] Times of India. (2025, August 22). Heavy rains disrupt life in Himachal Pradesh, over 300 roads blocked. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/heavy-rains-disrupt-life-in-himachal-pradesh-over-300-roads-blocked/articleshow/91265849.cms

[3] Hindustan Times. (2025, August 22). Heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh: Restoration work underway, but progress slow. Retrieved from https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/heavy-rains-in-himachal-pradesh-restoration-work-underway-but-progress-slow-101631005287371.html

[4] Deccan Herald. (2025, August 22). Search and rescue operations ongoing in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. Retrieved from https://www.deccanherald.com/national/north/search-and-rescue-operations-ongoing-in-mandi-district-himachal-pradesh-989733.html

[5] NDTV. (2025, August 22). Over 300 roads disrupted in Himachal Pradesh due to heavy rains and landslides. Retrieved from https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/over-300-roads-disrupted-in-himachal-pradesh-due-to-heavy-rains-and-landslides-3142476

[6] PTI. (2025, August 22). Himachal Pradesh: 21 deaths due to road accidents in Mandi district. Retrieved from https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/himachal-pradesh-21-deaths-due-to-road-accidents-in-mandi-district/399825

[7] ANI. (2025, August 22). Over Rs 2,031 crore financial loss due to monsoon rains in Himachal Pradesh: Official. Retrieved from https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/over-rs-2-031-crore-financial-loss-due-to-monsoon-rains-in-himachal-pradesh-official-121082201350_1.html

[8] ABP News. (2025, August 22). Heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh: Restoration efforts may face delays if downpours persist. Retrieved from https://www.abpnews.tv/news/india/story/heavy-rains-in-himachal-pradesh-restoration-efforts-may-face-delays-if-downpours-persist-1196621

[9] PTI. (2025, August 22). NH-305 in Kullu and NH-505 in Lahaul-Spiti remain blocked due to landslides and road cave-ins. Retrieved from https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/nh-305-in-kullu-and-nh-505-in-lahaul-spiti-remain-blocked-due-to-landslides-and-road-cave-ins-121082201020_1.html

As heavy rains continue to disrupt life in Himachal Pradesh, other forms of accidents such as car accidents on the blocked roads also pose a significant risk.
Meanwhile, the meteorological department continues to forecast more rainfall in the coming days, potentially complicating efforts to restore power infrastructure and water supply schemes that are already affected.
As the state struggles with the aftermath of the monsoon, incidents of crime and justice, such as accidents and fatalities, may also increase due to the challenging weather conditions and disrupted infrastructure.

Monsoon Rampage in Himachal Pradesh: 241 deaths, over 300 impacted roads, and 70 DTRs (District Transport Representatives) disrupted due to the wrath of the seasonal rains.