Heavy Cloudbursts in Himachal: 50 missing, red alert issued for Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra

Heavy rains have hit Himachal Pradesh since late Wednesday. Cloudbursts in Mandi, Shimla, and Kullu districts have caused major flooding, killing 5 people and leaving around 50 missing. As of Thursday, rescue operations have recovered two bodies, but more rain is expected on Friday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts.

Emergency response and warnings

A flash flood warning has been issued for six districts: Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Chamba, and Sirmaur. Himachal Pradesh's Additional Chief Secretary, Onkar Chand Sharma, said the alert for heavy rain is in effect until August 2, with further updates to follow.

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Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has received assurances of support from the Union Home Minister and has been in contact with key figures, including BJP Chief Nadda and Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. The Indian Army has deployed 125 personnel, an Engineer Task Force, and a Medical Team for rescue efforts in Shimla.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation, and the Indian Army has mobilized for rescue operations. The IMD's rainfall forecast shows that low and middle hills will experience rain at most places, while high hills will see rain at many locations. Palampur recorded the highest rainfall at 212 mm, with other areas such as Chauri, Dharamshala, and Shimla also experiencing significant rainfall.

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