Cloudbursts, flash floods in Himachal: Rescue operations on to find missing, IAF airlifts relief material
Shimla, July 8, 2025 —
Continuous torrential rain has wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh, triggering multiple cloudbursts and flash floods across several districts. As disaster response teams race against time to locate the missing and help the stranded, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has joined the efforts, delivering essential relief materials to the worst-hit areas.
Relentless Rains Worsen Conditions Across the State
Over the past two days, heavy rain has lashed Himachal, particularly in Mandi, Kullu, Chamba, and Kinnaur. Cloudbursts in these areas caused sudden flooding, sweeping away homes, bridges, and farmlands. Several roads have collapsed or become impassable due to landslides and waterlogging.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) quickly issued red alerts, warning residents and travelers about the risk of further downpours. Local administrations promptly advised people to avoid non-essential movement.
Lives at Risk: People Missing, Injured in Multiple Districts
So far, authorities have confirmed that at least 12 people are missing, while over 30 individuals have sustained injuries due to landslides, house collapses, or flash floods. In Mandi’s Kotropi village, a cloudburst triggered a massive flood in a local stream, sweeping away several houses and vehicles.
In Kullu, rescue teams located multiple stranded tourists near the Parvati Valley. While most were safely brought to higher ground, search efforts continue for four people still unaccounted for.
IAF Airdrops Supplies as Ground Access Fails
Since road access remains blocked in many regions, the Indian Air Force has begun airlifting relief supplies. From its Chandigarh and Udhampur bases, the IAF launched helicopter missions, delivering food, water, medicine, and temporary shelter kits.
According to an IAF official, their teams prioritized remote villages where residents had no access to help or basic necessities. These aerial drops have already reached parts of Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba, where communication lines remain down.
Relief and Rescue: Teams Work Round the Clock
The state government, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), has deployed emergency teams in nearly every flood-hit district. These teams are actively clearing debris, rescuing stranded people, and providing first aid.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu chaired an emergency meeting on Monday to coordinate response efforts. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of citizens and restore essential services as quickly as possible,” he stated.
Rescue workers have also set up temporary shelters in government schools and community buildings to house displaced families. Volunteers and local NGOs are helping distribute blankets, sanitary supplies, and hot meals to those affected.
Tourism Disrupted, Travel Unsafe
Tourism in Himachal Pradesh, which typically peaks during the monsoon, has taken a severe hit. Thousands of tourists are stranded in popular spots such as Manali, Dalhousie, and Shimla due to road closures. The government has urged travelers to postpone their trips and refrain from venturing into landslide-prone zones.
Several highways, including the Chandigarh-Manali route, remain blocked by fallen trees and debris. Additionally, the Kalka-Shimla rail service has suspended operations because of mudslides and damaged tracks.
Environmental Experts Raise Red Flags
This isn’t the first time Himachal has faced such a crisis during the monsoon. However, environmentalists believe the frequency and intensity of such events are increasing. Experts blame climate change, deforestation, and unchecked construction in ecologically sensitive zones.
Dr. Meena Rajput, a climate researcher based in Shimla, emphasized the urgent need for stricter environmental regulations. “These disasters are becoming more frequent and severe. Unless we respect the natural geography of the region, such tragedies will only escalate,” she explained.
Community Support and Emergency Services Step Up
While state and central authorities coordinate rescue and relief efforts, local communities have also stepped forward. In many areas, residents formed human chains to help each other cross flooded streets or escape from damaged houses.
Emergency helplines have been activated for affected families and tourists. Additionally, drones are being used to survey remote areas and assess damages more efficiently.
Helpline Numbers:
- State Emergency: 1070 / 1077
- Mandi District Control Room: +91-1905-222222
- WhatsApp Support: +91-98160-44444
Medical teams are conducting health check-ups in temporary shelters to prevent waterborne diseases, which often follow flood events.
Preparedness for the Coming Days
The IMD has predicted more rainfall in the next 48 hours. As a result, authorities are taking precautionary measures by evacuating residents from high-risk zones and issuing real-time alerts via mobile networks and radio.
Looking ahead, experts and officials stress the importance of long-term disaster preparedness. Building resilient infrastructure, improving drainage systems, and enforcing strict land-use policies will be crucial for protecting lives and minimizing damage in the future.
