Last updated on August 30th, 2024 at 01:47 pm
More than 50 people have been reported missing after multiple cloudbursts occurred in Himachal Pradesh on Thursday, affecting the Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu districts. The search and rescue operations are in full swing as officials work to assess the full extent of the damage.
Roads Washed Away, Hydro Power Project Damaged
The cloudbursts have caused significant infrastructure damage, including roads being washed away and a hydropower project in Malana sustaining damage, according to Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap.
Rescue Operations and Use of Drones
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, police, and home guards are leading the rescue efforts. Drones are being deployed to help locate those missing amid the challenging conditions.
Chief Minister’s Response
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his sorrow over the incident and assured that the local administration has been instructed to ensure smooth relief and rescue operations. “Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed deep sorrow over the tragic news of more than 50 people missing due to cloudbursts in Rampur tehsil of Shimla, Padhar tehsil of Mandi district, & the villages of Jaon & Nirmand in Kullu.”
