The Himachal Pradesh government on Friday declared the whole state a 'natural calamity affected area' after incessant rains caused large-scale damage. 

In an official notification, the state government said,  the decision was taken as Himachal Pradesh witnessed unprecedented loss of human lives and huge destruction, damage and loss to public and private property during the ongoing monsoon season. 

"The state of Himachal Pradesh has witnessed unprecedented loss of human lives and huge destruction, damage and loss to public and private property during the ongoing monsoon season. The entire state has been badly ravaged by incessant rain leading to floods, cloudbursts, landslides, and slope failure taking heavy toll of lives and property. Thousands of dwelling units have been damaged or destroyed," the statement read.

"Keeping in view the unprecedented grave situation leading to loss of human life and damage, destruction and loss of public infrastructure and private property, the state government. has decided to declare the whole State of Himachal Pradesh as “natural calamity affected area”," it added.

Reportedly, over 12,000 houses have been damaged, around 330 lives were lost and the state has suffered a loss of over ₹10,000 crore.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhkhu emphasized that the state government is actively engaged in relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts, providing all possible assistance to the affected individuals, reported ARI.

The Chief Minister said that in recent days, the state has suffered significant losses due to continuous heavy rainfall, cloud bursts, and landslides, the report added.

The livelihoods of the people have been severely impacted, with disruptions in water supply, power distribution, roads, and other essential resources. Economic activities have also been adversely affected, including agriculture and horticulture. The communication network has been negatively impacted as well.

Meanwhile, the Shimla Meteorological Center has issued yellow alert of heavy to very heavy rainfall in the state till 23rd August. 

The Meteorological Department has expressed concerns about substantial rainfall in the remaining 10 districts of the state, except Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur. 

People have been advised to remain cautious during this period, to avoid venturing near rivers and streams, and to steer clear of areas prone to landslides.

Source-AIR