Monsoon death toll in this state rises to 312, Many people also lost their lives in rain and road accidents

According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), Himachal Pradesh has witnessed 312 deaths since the onset of monsoon on June 20, of which 160 deaths are related to rain-related disasters such as landslides, flash floods, cloudbursts, drowning, lightning strikes and other weather-related incidents. 152 people have died in road accidents.

Loss of crores of rupees
The state economy has suffered a total loss of Rs 2,75,354.81 crore, which includes damage to public infrastructure, private property, agriculture, horticulture and livestock. 1,854 animals and more than 25,700 poultry birds have also lost their lives in this disaster.

Kangra reported the highest number of deaths
The SDMA report shows that rain-related deaths were widespread, with Kangra (30) recording the highest number of fatalities, followed by Mandi (29), Chamba (14), Kinnaur (14) and Kullu (13). Road accidents also accounted for a significant number of fatalities, with Chamba and Mandi reporting 22 deaths each, followed by Kangra (19) and Shimla (15).

PWD details damage
Heavy rains in Himachal have caused massive damage to infrastructure. The Public Works Department (PWD) has reported losses of over Rs 1.53 lakh crore, while the Jal Shakti Department (water supply and irrigation) has suffered losses of Rs 94,772.97 crore.

Power sector suffers losses of over Rs 13,946 crore
The report said the power sector has suffered losses of over Rs 13,946 crore. Also, health, education, fisheries, rural and urban development, and animal husbandry sectors have suffered.

Housing damage includes 338 completely damaged concrete houses, 438 completely damaged kutcha houses, and 3,367 partially damaged concrete houses. Shops, cowsheds, workers' huts, ghats and agricultural land have also been damaged.

The death toll may increase further
The state government is continuing rescue, relief and restoration work. The SDMA has reiterated that restoring connectivity, power supply and drinking water system is the top priority. Officials have warned that the death toll and damage may increase further if heavy rains continue in sensitive districts.