Nation

New Delhi (August 16,2023) : The death toll in the heavy rain that has pounded Himachal Pradesh since Monday has risen to 60. The state government has declared a holiday for schools and colleges on Wednesday as a safety measure. The worst-hit areas are Shimla, Mandi and Solan. In Shimla, at least 20 people have been killed in landslides and flash floods. In Mandi, 15 people have been killed and 10 are missing after a cloudburst hit a village. In Solan, five people have been killed and two are missing after a bridge collapsed.

The Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed to rescue people and provide relief. The state government has also announced a compensation of Rs. 5 lakh to the families of those who have died.

The heavy rain has also caused widespread damage to infrastructure. Roads and bridges have been washed away, and power and telecom lines have been disrupted. The state government has appealed to people to stay indoors and not to travel unless it is absolutely necessary. The Met department has forecast more rain in the next few days. The state government has warned people to be prepared for more flooding and landslides.

The heavy rain in Himachal Pradesh is a reminder of the dangers of climate change. The state is one of the most vulnerable to climate change in India. The increasing frequency and intensity of rainfall events is making it more difficult for people to cope with the natural disasters. The state government needs to take steps to mitigate the impact of climate change. It needs to invest in infrastructure that is resilient to floods and landslides. It also needs to educate people about the risks of climate change and how to stay safe.