Mandi: A devastating flash flood triggered by a cloudburst wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi town in the early hours of Tuesday, July 29, leaving at least three people dead and one still missing, as per reports.
The flood, which struck around Jail Road, caused widespread damage to homes, vehicles, and infrastructure, while landslides blocked the Chandigarh–Manali highway, bringing traffic to a standstill and leaving hundreds stranded.
Several visuals of the havoc in the region surfaced on social media. Have a look:
Houses Swamped, Vehicles Swept Away
The cloudburst struck when most residents were asleep, sending a surge of water from a rivulet crashing into several homes along Jail Road. Reportedly, over two dozen vehicles parked in the area were either swept away or severely damaged. The floodwaters also reached the regional hospital road, cutting off access, while the Mandi Bus Terminus was inundated. Landslides were reported across town, including near Victoria Bridge and DAV School.
A rescue operation was launched by the local administration as soon as the disaster struck. While the identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed at the time of writing this report, officials said one person was feared buried under debris. Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan visited the affected sites to oversee ongoing relief efforts.
Highway Blocked, Toll Rises
Landslides triggered by relentless rain led to multiple blockages on the Chandigarh–Manali highway, including near Pandoh at 4 Mile, 9 Mile, and Dwara in Mandi district. The closures have also caused massive traffic congestion, with the highway yet to reopen.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu said he is personally monitoring the situation and has directed local authorities to expedite search, rescue, and relief operations. Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur also visited Jail Road to meet with those affected.
According to the State Emergency Operations Centre, Himachal Pradesh has recorded 164 deaths this monsoon since June 20 and suffered losses amounting to Rs 1,523.11 crore.
