Flash Flood Devastates Chamba, Himachal Pradesh

Heavy monsoon rains have battered Himachal Pradesh, leading to a severe flash flood in Chamba town on Tuesday. The overflowing seasonal nullah caused extensive damage, destroying houses, a shop, and a government building, while many vehicles were washed away. Authorities are actively clearing debris and assessing losses in the affected areas.

The state's infrastructure has been significantly impacted, with 179 roads blocked across Himachal Pradesh by Tuesday evening. Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba districts reported the highest number of road blockades. Water supply to Shimla is also facing disturbances due to transformer failures and flooding at water sources.

Fresh weather warnings have been issued by the India Meteorological Department, with an orange alert for Sirmaur district and yellow alerts for other regions forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall until August 1. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and avoid venturing near rivers and seasonal streams.

Authorities have also issued advisories regarding increased water discharge from the Parbati Hydroelectric Project Stage-II, warning people to stay away from riverbanks. So far, the monsoon season, which began on June 30, has resulted in 15 fatalities due to landslides and flash floods.