Devastating Rainfall Claims 71 Lives in Himachal Pradesh: Shimla Shuts Schools, CM Describes Situation as 'Mountain-like Challenge' | Key Highlights

Schools Shut Down in Himachal Amid Rain Havoc: Shimla Campus Closed, 10 Lives Lost in Uttarakhand Deluge

In the wake of relentless rain triggering landslides, all schools in Shimla remain closed today. Meanwhile, the neighboring state of Uttarakhand grapples with the aftermath of heavy downpours that have claimed 10 lives so far.

The unceasing rain has caused widespread devastation in Himachal Pradesh over the past three days, resulting in a tragic death toll of 71. The state now faces a staggering monetary loss of ₹75,000 crore due to this year's monsoon onslaught. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that it will take at least a year to rebuild the washed-away infrastructure, describing the task as a "mountain-like challenge."

Tragedy struck again on Tuesday as a fresh landslide hit Shimla, claiming the lives of 2 individuals. The landslide struck Krishna Nagar in Shimla, causing the collapse of five to seven houses.

Shimla's educational institutions remain closed due to blocked roads resulting from frequent landslides. The deteriorating situation prompted the state government to appeal to the Centre for the declaration of a national calamity in Himachal Pradesh.

The rain's intensity in Himachal has surpassed the season's average, with 742mm of rainfall recorded in the state within 54 days of monsoon, compared to the usual average of 730mm. July alone witnessed record-breaking rainfall in the last 50 years, resulting in the most catastrophic natural calamity of the same period.

Chief Minister Sukhu attributed the landslides to faulty structural design and unchecked construction by outsider architects, who lack knowledge of proper hill construction techniques. He emphasized that old multi-storied government buildings remain intact despite the catastrophe.

Meanwhile, Uttarakhand faced its own tragedy, as 10 lives were lost due to rain havoc and landslides. In Rudraprayag, 293 stranded pilgrims were rescued from the route to Madmaheshwar temple. The impact of the rain was particularly felt at Lakshman Jhula, where a landslide buried six individuals at the Night Paradise Camp resort.

The state of Punjab also witnessed severe flooding, with Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, and Rupnagar being among the worst-hit areas. Excess water release from the Bhakra and Pong dams submerged these regions, leading to holidays being declared in government and private schools, as well as Anganwadi centers in flood-affected areas.

(With inputs from agencies)