Himachal Rains Claim 55 Lives, Toll Likely to Rise: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expresses concerns over the rising death toll and assures support.
Shimla, Himachal: Chief Ministers from both Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand have reassured the public that all possible help will be extended during these trying times. As the death toll crosses the 50 mark, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expresses concerns that this number might rise further as rescue and recovery efforts continue relentlessly.
In light of the worsening situation, the Himachal Pradesh police have issued warnings to residents living near the banks of rivers, particularly downstream of the Bhakra Dam. The increased water volume due to the dam discharging water to lower reservoirs has raised concerns, urging residents to remain vigilant.
A temple in the Summer Hill vicinity collapsed tragically due to a landslide, leading to the loss of nine lives and leaving around 20 individuals trapped beneath the debris. Chief Minister Sukhu anticipates that the death toll might further increase due to this unfortunate incident.
In the same area, five more bodies were recovered from the rubble, amplifying the scale of the tragedy. Meanwhile, in the Solan District, a cloudburst in Jado Village led to the loss of seven lives, with two houses being washed away.
The heavy rains have not only claimed lives but have also left a lasting mark on the region’s infrastructure. Critical transportation arteries, like the Chandigarh-Shimla highway, fell victim to landslides. Swift actions have managed to reopen these routes, providing a lifeline to those affected.
The state’s heritage has also suffered a blow, as the UNESCO world heritage Shimla-Kalka Railway line faced the fury of nature. A concrete bridge near Summer Hill was swept away by a landslide, damaging the heritage track at multiple points, disrupting travel along this historical route.
Thousands of houses have been damaged, and crucial services like electricity and water supply are severely disrupted. The toll on human lives is heart-rending, with communities facing unimaginable loss and devastation.
As Himachal Pradesh battles the devastating effects of heavy rains, the region’s strength and resilience are put to the test. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s concerns over the rising death toll highlight the urgency of the situation.
The tragic loss of lives, disrupted infrastructure, and shattered landscapes paint a somber picture. In these trying times, unity, support, and determined efforts are paramount as the region endeavors to recover and rebuild. The road ahead might be long and arduous, but the spirit of the people shines through, giving hope for a better future.
