Heavy rain claimed 19 lives in Kangra, caused Rs 130 crore loss

Relentless heavy rainfall over the past one month has wreaked havoc in Kangra district, claiming 19 lives and causing an estimated loss of over Rs 130 crore.

According to official figures, the Jal Shakti Department has suffered the maximum loss of Rs 89 crore. As many as 847 water supply schemes of the department have been impacted, leaving several parts of the district without drinking water. However, as of now, the water supply has been restored to a majority of settlements but permanent repair work is yet to be carried out at many locations.

Private properties were also devastated in heavy rainfall. A total of 57 houses were completely destroyed, including 11 kutcha structures. Another 68 houses (57 kutcha and 11 pucca) were partially damaged. The monsoon fury also led to the death of 15 head of cattle in rural areas.

Standing crops in various regions were also washed away in flashfloods even as damage assessment was still going on. The Agriculture Department has so far pegged the crop loss at Rs 13.57 lakh, a figure expected to rise as more reports are yet to come from far-flung areas. Also, 32 schemes of the Horticulture Department have been affected, causing an estimated loss of Rs 2.57 lakh.

Urban areas, including Dharamsala city, have also suffered damage. According to initial estimates, the city has suffered losses of over Rs 36 crore, with the Public Works Department (PWD) bearing the brunt. The Electricity Board has reported a loss of about Rs 1 crore. Several ongoing development projects in the city have halted due to weeks of continuous rainfall.

District Magistrate Hemraj Bairwa says that all departments have been directed to prioritise restoration of water supply, road connectivity and other essential services. “We are focusing on immediate relief and restoration work. Field teams are working round the clock despite challenging weather conditions,” he adds.

Himachal Tribune