Heavy rains continue in Himachal, 394 roads blocked

The North News

Shimla, September 20

Himachal Pradesh remains under the grip of an active monsoon, with several areas receiving light to moderate rainfall in the past 24 hours. Sandeep Kumar Sharma, scientist at the Meteorological Centre, of Shimla said that some mid-Himalayan regions may see isolated showers between 20 and 25 September, but a gradual decrease in rainfall is expected from 20 September onwards.

The state has so far recorded 46% above-normal rainfall this season, with districts such as Shimla and Kullu reporting particularly high levels. Heavy rainfall has disrupted life in several regions. By Friday evening, 394 roads, including two national highways, were blocked. Power supply was affected as 73 transformers went out of service, while 174 drinking water schemes were shut, causing shortages in many areas.

According to the State Disaster Management Authority, rains since 20 June have caused losses exceeding ₹4,754 crore. At least 427 people have died, 481 have been injured, and 46 remain missing. The state has also reported the death of more than 29,000 livestock.