At least 303 people have lost their lives in cloudbursts, landslides, flash floods and other rain-related incidents during the ongoing monsoon season in India’s northern hilly state of Himachal Pradesh.
The state’s disaster management authority said in a statement that since June 20, 155 deaths were recorded from rain-related incidents, while 148 fatalities occurred in road accidents amid heavy downpours.
The statement noted that over the past two months, the monsoon season had caused widespread destruction across Himachal Pradesh.
According to the authority, the most affected districts were Mandi and Kangra.
It further estimated total losses at around 27.43 billion Indian Rupees (314 million U.S. dollars), covering severe damage to public infrastructure and agricultural resources.
Residents in vulnerable areas were urged to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and stay updated with official advisories as monsoon conditions persisted.
(NAN)