NEW DELHI: Multiple flash floods were reported on Sunday across Mandi district, including Panarsa, Takoli and Nagwain along the Mandi-Kullu stretch of the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway. The highway has been blocked at several points, bringing traffic to a standstill and causing major disruption.Incessant heavy rainfall and a cloudburst have triggered flash floods in the region, with visuals showing torrents of muddy water rushing through affected areas. Authorities said no casualties have been reported so far. “No reports of human loss have been received in the incidents,” Sachin Hiremath, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mandi, told news agency ANI. Police are maintaining a strict vigil at vulnerable sites while restoration work is underway to reopen the highway and restore traffic.Widespread damage across Himachal PradeshThe flash floods come as Himachal Pradesh continues to grapple with one of its most destructive monsoon seasons in recent years. According to the State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA), 261 deaths have been recorded between 20 June and 16 August 2025. Of these, 136 people lost their lives in rain-related incidents such as landslides, drowning, electrocution, house collapses and flash floods, while 125 died in road accidents.Mandi district has recorded the highest casualties, with 26 deaths, along with severe damage to public infrastructure. Other badly affected districts include Kangra (28 deaths), Kullu (11 deaths) and Chamba (10 deaths). The HPSDMA report estimates losses worth over Rs 2,14,457 lakh this monsoon, with roads, water supply, agriculture, horticulture and electricity infrastructure hit hardest. The Public Works Department alone has reported losses exceeding Rs 1.18 lakh crore, while agriculture and horticulture have suffered combined losses of over RS 83,000 crore.Connectivity remains a major concern, with frequent blockages along key highways including NH-05 (Kinnaur) and NH-305 (Kullu). Many interior villages remain cut off for days, hampering rescue and relief operations.The report also highlights widespread destruction of homes, with 278 houses fully damaged, 288 partially damaged and 703 cowsheds destroyed. Over 27,000 animals and birds have perished. Officials said restoring essential services remains a priority, though persistent rainfall and recurring landslides are slowing progress. Residents have been urged to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and follow weather advisories as the monsoon season is set to continue for several more weeks.
