Seventeen fatalities have been reported in the floods and landslides that struck Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district on June 30th. Fifty-six people are missing. NDRF, SDRF, and the army are engaged in relief and rescue operations.
Himachal Flood: The floods and landslides that occurred in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district on June 30th have caused widespread devastation. So far, 17 deaths have been confirmed, while 56 people are still missing. Hundreds of people have been displaced from their homes, and several areas are completely cut off from contact.
Relief Operations Intensify
Relief and rescue operations have now accelerated following the disaster. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and teams from the Indian Army are working jointly. The NDRF has rescued 65 people from Deji village in the Saraj area of Mandi. All these people were stranded due to landslides and floods.
Teams Reach Through Difficult Terrain
The NDRF team covered a difficult nine-kilometer trek to reach Deji village. Debris was accumulated in many places along the route, and there was a constant risk of falling rocks. Heavy rainfall further complicated the situation. Despite this, the administration, disaster relief teams, and local volunteers successfully completed this operation.
Prioritizing the Sick, People Sent to Relief Camps
In Deji village, the sick and elderly were given priority, and initial medical examinations were conducted. All the people were then safely moved to relief camps. The administration has arranged for water, food, and first aid in the relief camps.
Apoorv Devgan, the Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, said that the roads were completely broken, and there was a constant threat due to landslides. However, the situation was brought under control with the coordination of all departments.
State and Central Governments Active
Along with the state government, the central government is also keeping a close eye on the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Minister Manohar Lal spoke with the Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur on Friday morning and took information about the relief operations and assured all possible assistance.
Air Support and Drone Search
Relief materials are being delivered to the affected areas with the help of Air Force helicopters. At the same time, drone technology is being used to search for missing persons.
Affected Area: Significant Loss of Life and Property
According to reports so far, 214 houses, 192 cattle sheds, and seven shops have been completely destroyed in Mandi district. About 403 people have been given shelter in seven relief camps. The body of Parvati Devi, who went missing in the Juyani Khad in Mandi's Gohar sub-division, has been found on the banks of the Beas River.
The Thunag sub-division headquarters is still cut off from all sides, but it is expected to be connected by road by Saturday evening. Electricity and telecommunication services have been partially restored.
