Himachal Pradesh on high alert: Monsoon intensifies with heavy rain forecast through July 12

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh): The monsoon is set to strengthen across Himachal Pradesh, with the Meteorological Centre in Shimla forecasting a surge in precipitation starting 5 July. Authorities have issued ‘orange’ and ‘yellow’ alerts for heavy rainfall across various parts of the state, effective until 12 July.

Heavy rain experienced over the past 24 hours has already caused flood-like conditions in some sectors, disrupting daily life. While debris triggered temporary closures on several national highways, traffic flow has since been restored.

In the tribal district of Kinnaur, the town of Kalpa recorded a minimum temperature of 14.2°C and a maximum of 24.4°C.

In response to the forecast, the state government has ordered all district administrations to maintain high alert levels to mitigate potential disasters. Jagat Singh Negi, the Minister for Revenue and Horticulture, confirmed that pre-monsoon showers had already inflicted damage in several regions. Consequently, Deputy Commissioners have been tasked with ensuring disaster management protocols are fully operational.

Negi emphasised that both the government and the administration are ready to address emergencies, with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams positioned at key locations. Departments overseeing electricity, water supplies, and road infrastructure have been ordered to conduct immediate repairs should services be interrupted.

"Currently, even before the monsoon season this year, there have been quite a lot of rains, and damage has occurred in various places across several districts, instructions have been given to everyone to remain alert and prepared," he told ANI.

"Wherever any kind of disaster occurs, the administration is fully prepared on behalf of the government. And in case of a major disaster, we have kept SDRF and NDRF teams ready. In many places, these units have been deployed in highly vulnerable locations; for instance, we have deployed a unit of 50 in Shimla as well. We have an NDRF unit nearby for Kinnaur in Jauri," he added.

The Minister noted that flooding at Choling in Kinnaur recently blocked National Highway-5, though the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) managed to clear the route and normalise traffic within a matter of hours.

With inputs from ANI