Himachal Pradesh

9 houses damaged, woman injured & 282 roads still blocked

These states, located in the Himalayan region, face maximum impacts because of their fragile ecosystems, high altitude, and dependence on climate-sensitive resource

Bada Bhangal village is isolated due to landslides and altered river courses, blocking pedestrian routes essential for supplies. The Gaddi community faces disrupted migration and shortages of food and medicine. The sarpanch requests route restoration; the district administration promises action.

The HP High Court struck down Section 163-A of the HP Land Revenue Act, ruling it unconstitutional. The court mandated encroachment removal by February 2026 and ordered the state to address criminal trespass laws. The ruling was in response to a petition against land encroachment regularization.

National Highway 05 in Kinnaur is blocked due to a flash flood caused by a cloudburst, with no reported casualties. Road clearance efforts are underway. Shimla also experienced a road blockage due to a fallen tree, which was subsequently cleared. Heavy rainfall and a yellow weather warning are in effect across the state until August 11.

The HPCC president selection faces delays, with Rohit Thakur and Ashish Butail as potential candidates. Current president Pratibha Singh might continue. Leaders seek a strong leader due to the nine-month organizational vacuum and growing resentment. A cabinet reshuffle may follow the appointment.

Crafted by Chauhara’s Jai Devta Jabal Narayan, the unique sweet boasts year-long shelf life

The Kinnaur Kailash Yatra is temporarily suspended due to heavy rainfall damaging the route, including washed-away bridges and treacherous trekking paths. Pilgrims are sheltered, and safety is the priority. The administration advises against planning the yatra until further notice.

Himachal Pradesh approved a Rs 19 crore drinking water scheme for the upcoming Central University campus in Dehra. The project, using water from the Beas river, will supply 12 lakh liters daily, crucial for the campus expected to host most academic activities. Construction is underway; academic sessions could start next year.

30 roads, spanning over 1,039.75 km, completed

Himachal Pradesh electricity workers suspended their planned August 7 protest. The state government agreed to meet with the Joint Action Committee (JAC) on August 12 to discuss employee issues, including charge sheets against leaders and restrictions on protests. The JAC hopes for a positive outcome.

A young man from Punjab died mysteriously in a Himachal Pradesh hotel, prompting family protests. The family suspects drug use, alleging drug-related issues in the town. Police await a postmortem report. Family and local officials demand action against hotel owners and drug smugglers.

The Agriculture Department purchased wheat, maize, and raw turmeric from farmers, transferring funds via direct benefit transfer. The government promotes natural farming through training, subsidies, and 'Him-Bhog' brand sales. Over 222,893 farmers currently practice natural farming, with a target to add 100,000 more.

The National Health Mission and the Himachal Pradesh AIDS Control Society will collaborate to screen all expectant mothers for HIV and syphilis to prevent vertical transmission. This effort includes regular screening at health facilities and strategies for home births, along with public awareness campaigns and improved coordination between agencies.

Dam reservoir swells to 1368.53 ft; Bhakra Beas board yet to issue flood alert

A massive landslide in Raghupur valley destroyed a school, cow shelters, and orchards, causing livestock deaths and evacuations. Heavy rainfall triggered landslides across multiple areas, isolating villages, damaging roads, and threatening homes. Urgent relief and infrastructure repairs are crucial to prevent further devastation.

Martyrdom day of Capt Chander Narain Singh

The Shimla CPM protested against HPSEBL, demanding cancellation of disciplinary actions against union leaders. They seek restoration of union rights, removal of corrupt officials, and fulfillment of employee demands, citing violations of trade union and constitutional rights. The CPM also criticized government policies impacting public sector undertakings.

Workshops promoting sustainable practices were held in Solan and Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh, targeting MSMEs. The initiative focuses on training in energy conservation, waste management, and green financing, aiming to reach over 2,500 businesses. The program is part of the RAMP initiative, supported by the World Bank.

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College activated cochlear implants for three patients. The patients received surgery during a workshop in July. The ENT Department, led by Dr. Munish Saroch, performed the switch-on, marking the start of the patients' auditory rehabilitation and celebrated by thankful families.

The Una BJP unit announced its new executive committee with 33% women and representation from Scheduled Castes and Tribes. The party will observe Partition Horrors Remembrance Day and Tiranga Divas. A state-level training workshop will be held in Una on August 24.

Over 800 dog bite cases, 378 monkey bites reported in first half of 2025

#HillView:: Supreme Court offers temporary relief to encroachers; High Court’s no-compromise stance signals tough road ahead

Mandi district received over Rs 4.23 crore in relief funds for recent disasters and accidents, with Rs 62 lakh disbursed immediately. Thunag sub-division was worst hit. Aid includes rent assistance, relief camps, and damage assessments. The administration is ensuring timely assistance and support to affected families.

Kullu police arrested a Punjab man at a hotel, seizing 50 gm of heroin. The arrest, part of a trend, highlights a shift to potent synthetic drugs. Police are tracing the supply chain and combating the drug menace, urging public vigilance.