Himachal Pradesh cloudburst:  2 killed, 36 missing in Shimla, 8 in Mandi, emergency response underway

New Delhi, Aug 01: In a devastating series of events, 36 people have been reported missing in the Samej area of Shimla district, while 8 people are missing in the Tikken area of Mandi. Two bodies have been recovered, and one person is injured. In Kullu, the barrage of a power project in Malana has breached, leaving people stranded and road connectivity closed. The chief minister has called an emergency meeting as the situation unfolds, media and news agencies reported.

Emergency Response and Rescue Operations Official Statements

Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap has stated that relief operations began as soon as the incidents were reported. The inclusion of ITBP and the Special Home Guard contingent has bolstered the rescue efforts, with all teams working together to manage the crisis effectively. Basic facilities, including ambulances, have been provided to ensure immediate medical attention for those affected.

The teams of the National Disaster Response Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, police, and home guards are actively engaged in the rescue operations, striving to reach and assist those stranded due to the natural calamity.

As the situation continues to develop, the authorities are urging residents to stay informed and follow official advisories. The emergency response teams are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of this disaster and ensure the safety of all affected individuals.

Chief Minister's Emergency Meeting

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has convened an emergency meeting with officials to coordinate the search and rescue operations in the Samej Khad area of Rampur, Shimla district, where more than 50 people are missing, and two bodies have been recovered following a cloudburst. The chief minister emphasized the urgency of the situation and the need for swift and coordinated efforts to locate and assist the missing individuals.

Heavy Rain in Dharamshala

Meanwhile, heavy rain continues to lash parts of Dharamshala district, exacerbating the challenges faced by rescue teams. The relentless downpour is hampering efforts and increasing the risk of further incidents.