Himachal Pradesh Reels Under Cloudburst Tragedy: 4 Dead, 49 Missing

Restoration efforts are in progress in Rampur Bushahr, Himachal Pradesh, following a devastating cloudburst that claimed four lives and left 49 missing. Official reports reveal extensive property damage, while ongoing rescue operations face weather-related challenges.

Restoration works are underway in Rampur Bushahr, Himachal Pradesh, following a catastrophic cloudburst that struck yesterday. State Minister Rajesh Dharmani confirmed that four people have died and 49 remain missing.

As per Dharmani, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has conducted a high-level meeting but was unable to visit the affected area due to adverse weather. The districts of Kullu, Shimla, and Mandi have been severely impacted. 'An alert has been issued across the region. Our search operation will continue until we locate all missing persons,' Dharmani stated. State Minister Jagat Singh Negi is on-site, while NDRF and Army teams are actively involved in rescue and search efforts.

CM Sukhu emphasized that rescue operations are in full swing. 'I plan to visit the most affected area once the weather permits. We aim to rescue the trapped individuals and recover the bodies when sunlight allows,' he added, urging tourists to avoid waterfalls and rivers. Ajay Kumar, a JCB driver, reported that landslides have caused significant regional damage and road blockages.

Eyewitness Naresh Kumar recounted his ordeal, revealing that some relatives lost their lives in the incident. He appealed to the government for assistance. NDRF Assistant Commandant Karam Singh stated that around 20-25 houses, a power plant, and a dispensary were in the vicinity and approximately 40 individuals were washed away. NDRF units, in coordination with the Indian Army and other agencies, are actively engaged in rescue operations.

The Himachal Pradesh Police noted that DGP has reviewed the communication and monitoring device procurement and the establishment of the State Disaster Control Center for effective disaster mitigation. Satellite phones, drones, and operational guidelines have been prioritized. (ANI)