On Thursday, the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, conducted a visit to areas in the Mandi district that have been adversely affected by floods and heavy rainfall.
Key Rainfall Updates from Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand:
- Infrastructure Damage in Uttarakhand’s Rishikesh: The Ram Jhula Bridge’s supporting wire snapped due to the swelling Ganga river, compelling officials to halt two-wheeler movement. Pauri Police imposed restrictions on pedestrian and vehicle traffic as a result.
- Uttarakhand’s Kaluwala Inundated: Following heavy downpours in Dehradun, excessive water inundated homes in Kaluwala. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) remained committed to aiding the affected residents.
- Search and Rescue Operation in Himachal Pradesh: A rescue operation was underway in landslide-hit areas of Shimla. Disaster Response Forces were active in the Summer Hill Area, conducting diligent search efforts.
- Pending Relief Funds and Central Government: Chief Minister Sukhu noted that a portion of central government relief funds was still pending. Out of the total due amount, a substantial sum has been released, while separate financial assistance remains pending.
- IMD’s Rainfall Predictions: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated the likelihood of varying degrees of rainfall in Uttarakhand from August 21 to 23. In Himachal Pradesh, IMD expert Surender Paul highlighted a significant surplus in monsoon rainfall this year.
- Infrastructure Damage in Uttarakhand: A section of the Shri Badrinath National Highway, connecting Maithana and Pursadi, succumbed to the force of the water on Thursday evening.
Shared Impact Across States:
Both Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh grapple with the impact of escalating monsoon rainfall. With the region experiencing significant excess rainfall, the authorities remain vigilant and engaged in relief efforts. The situation is expected to remain dynamic, with weather patterns influencing the course of events in the coming day