Central team in Kullu, apprised of losses caused by heavy rain

Kullu district experienced a series of devastating cloudbursts, flashfloods and landslides that washed away critical infrastructure during the ongoing monsoon season. To gauge the full extent of losses and guide relief efforts, a four-member inter-ministerial Central team arrived in Kullu today. Deputy Commissioner Torul S Raveesh welcomed the delegation outlining the scope of damage and the urgent need for coordinated assistance.

After an initial briefing at the NHPC Bhawan in Nagwain, the team members reviewed preliminary field reports and met with district officers to discuss rehabilitation strategies. Their findings will feed into a comprehensive report for the Centre.

The Deputy Commissioner gave a detailed power point presentation, summarising departmental losses totalling Rs 38.17 crore. Roads and bridges managed by the Public Works Department’s 6th Circle in Kullu alone suffered Rs 13.48 crore in damage, while the Nirmand Circle reported losses of Rs 3.48 crore. The Jal Shakti Department’s water supply network suffered Rs 18.66 crore loss. The State Electricity Board faced Rs 66.48 lakh in repairs and the agriculture, horticulture and education sectors collectively recorded losses exceeding Rs 1.9 crore. An HPPCL 100 MW power project accounted for an estimated Rs 15 crore in damage and will take two to three months to restore fully.

Across subdivisions such as Sainj, Manali, Banjar, Anni and Nirmand, landslides have left villages isolated, prompting the deployment of earthmovers and engineering teams to clear debris and reopen roads. The district administration has established temporary shelters, distributed food rations and mobilised medical camps to support displaced families. Efforts are also underway to restore drinking water lines and power supply in remote hamlets, with local volunteers and state agencies working alongside the State Disaster Response Force.

The assessment team comprised of senior officers from the Ministries of Home Affairs, Finance, Power and Rural Development.