Despite the weather crisis, Himachal Pradesh imposes a Red Alert due to heavy rainfall and subsequent flash floods and landslides, resulting in a tragic death toll of 75. For travelers, it is strongly advisable to reconsider journeys without delay.
In the heart of India, the picturesque state of Himachal Pradesh is currently battling the wrath of the monsoon season. Thousands of hectares of agricultural and horticultural land have been affected, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Kangra, Sirmaur, and Mandi districts.
The IMD's warning comes as no surprise, given that these districts have been experiencing very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides. This has led to a dangerous travel destination, with landslide-prone areas, blocked roads, and intermittent communication blackouts. An orange alert has been issued for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba, Solan, Shimla, and Kullu, placing many popular regions like Manali, Dharamshala, Shimla, and Kasol within impacted or high-alert zones.
The impact of the monsoon has been severe. As of early July 2025, 75 fatalities have been reported, with 288 people injured. Among the deaths, 45 are rain-related, and 30 are due to road accidents, electrocution, and a gas explosion. Schools and colleges in affected districts have been closed as a precaution.
In response to the crisis, relief and emergency teams are actively working to manage the situation. The Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has ordered relief and rescue operations to be carried out on a war footing, particularly in and around Mandi, which has reported the maximum destruction this week, with at least 14 deaths and 31 missing. A team from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has been deployed to Thunag, one of the worst-hit villages in Mandi district.
The administration is under pressure to restore essential services, reopen blocked roads, and ensure that timely assistance reaches cut-off villages. Travelers are also encouraged to stay informed about road closures and landslide updates. All non-essential travel to Himachal Pradesh is advised to be postponed until alerts are lifted and conditions stabilize.
On-site medical aid was provided to villagers in urgent need, and SDRF personnel distributed emergency medical kits, food supplies, and basic necessities to affected families in Panchayat Jarode. Despite the challenges, the spirit of resilience in the face of adversity remains strong among the local population.
In light of the ongoing crisis, visitors and residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the affected areas. If travel is unavoidable, it should be undertaken with extreme caution and only after checking the latest weather updates and local government advisories. The total losses due to the monsoon are estimated at INR 541.09 crore, a stark reminder of the devastating impact of the monsoon on the region.
As the monsoon continues to batter Himachal Pradesh, it is crucial for everyone to stay informed, stay safe, and lend a helping hand where possible. The IMD advises travellers to check their weather bulletin and local district alerts before travel to stay updated on the latest developments.
- Despite the current challenges in Himachal Pradesh, the local population demonstrates a strong spirit of resilience, as evidenced by the distribution of emergency medical kits, food supplies, and basic necessities to affected families.
- The travel situation in Himachal Pradesh is precarious, with landslide-prone areas, blocked roads, and intermittent communication blackouts, especially in the red alert regions of Kangra, Sirmaur, and Mandi districts.
- Apart from the monsoon-related calamities, general news reports suggest that the state is also grappling with crime and justice issues, accidents, and political issues, which add to the existing difficulties.
