Monsoon havoc causes damages worth over Rs 770 crore in Mandi

According to data released by Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Dr Madan Kumar, the rain disaster that struck Mandi district on June 30 has caused widespread destruction across multiple departments, with total damages estimated at a staggering Rs 770.68 crore.

The detailed department-wise report reveals extensive losses in infrastructure, agriculture, horticulture, education, power, water and health sectors due to the monsoon rains and associated landslides, floods, and road collapses.

Among the worst-hit departments is the Public Works Department, which reported damages amounting to Rs 357.25 crore across Mandi district, in sub-divisions of Dharampur, Thunag and Karsog, mainly due to the destruction of roads, bridges and culverts. The widespread damage to road connectivity had hampered relief operations and disrupted movement in rural and remote parts of the district. The Jal Shakti Vibhag followed with estimated losses of Rs 198.09 crore, severely impacting water supply infrastructure across the district. The Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board has also reported damages of over Rs 3.82 crore.

The Deputy Director of Horticulture reported a loss of over Rs 31.20 crore, while the Deputy Director of Agriculture reported damages of more than Rs 8.35 crore. These figures highlight the significant impact on the farming community, particularly apple growers and vegetable producers who are struggling to transport their produce to markets.

Educational institutions have also taken a hit. The Elementary and Higher Education Departments reported losses upto Rs 6.36 crore and Rs 7.82 crore, respectively, due to damaged school buildings and learning infrastructure. The Forest Department recorded damages worth Rs 2.04 crore. The Health and Family Welfare Department has also reported damages worth Rs 3 crore.

Additionally, the Patikari Power House Ltd (Gohar) reported a significant loss of Rs 85 crore, reflecting the toll taken on local hydroelectric projects. DRDA Mandi also reported over Rs 58 crore in damages, affecting various rural development programs.

Similarly the Fisheries Department suffered losses worth Rs 1.19 crore, Municipal Corporation (Rs 6.64 crore), Animal Husbandry Department (Rs 1.13 crore), Ayush Department (Rs 20 lakh) and HRTC (Rs 35.77 lakh).

ADM Dr Madan Kumar said the administration is actively coordinating with all departments to ensure swift restoration and has submitted this detailed damage assessment for further action at the state level. He emphasised that immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation efforts are being prioritised across affected areas.