Shimla – Rescue efforts to locate approximately 45 individuals missing after a series of devastating cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh have resumed as of Saturday. Despite significant efforts, no new breakthroughs have been reported in the search for the missing persons.
A comprehensive operation involving 410 personnel from various agencies, including the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), as well as local police and home guards, is currently underway. The search is being supported by drones to aid in covering the affected areas.
Incident Overview:
Affected Areas: The cloudbursts struck multiple locations including Nirmand, Sainj, and Malana in Kullu district, Padhar in Mandi, and Rampur subdivision in Shimla on Wednesday night.
Fatalities: Eight individuals have been confirmed dead due to the flash floods caused by these cloudbursts.
Stranded Individuals: Approximately 300 people stranded near Shrikhand Mahadev in Kullu have been reported safe. Additionally, around 25 tourists at Malana are being assisted by local residents.
Relief Efforts:
Immediate Assistance: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who visited Samej village in Rampur where over 30 people remain unaccounted for, has announced immediate relief measures. The victims will receive Rs 50,000 in immediate aid, and a monthly rental assistance of Rs 5,000 for the next three months. They will also be provided with gas, food, and other essential items.
Current Situation:
Search and Rescue: Despite extensive efforts by the rescue teams, there have been no new developments in locating the missing individuals. The operation continues to focus on searching through the debris and affected areas.
Authorities remain committed to the search and are urging residents to cooperate with the ongoing efforts. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
