In the wake of cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh, three people have been confirmed dead, and around 50 remain missing. The incidents, which occurred in the Shimla and Mandi districts, have caused widespread destruction, washing away houses, roads, and bridges, and damaging two hydroelectric power projects.

A cloudburst in the Samagh Khud area of Rampur subdivision, Shimla, left two dead and 28 others missing, while another cloudburst in the Thalatukhod area of Padhar, Mandi, claimed one life and left nine missing.

Rescue operations, led by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police, and local authorities, are underway but have been hampered by washed-away roads and severe damage to infrastructure. Drones are being used to locate the missing, and assistance from the Indian Air Force has been requested.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has convened an emergency meeting to address the crisis. At the same time, all educational institutions in the affected areas have been closed as rescue and relief operations take priority.

Amidst the crisis, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his condolences for the lives lost and the ongoing crisis. In a post on social media platform X, Gandhi shared that he had spoken with CM Sukhu to take stock of the situation, commending the efforts of the NDRF, SDRF, and state administration in their ongoing relief work. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also expressed her sorrow and prayed for the safety of the people of Himachal. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured the state of full support from the central government, including additional NDRF teams for rescue and relief operations.

(With inputs from PTI)