Storm damages crops, infrastructure in Mandi, Kullu
A severe storm caused extensive damage to agricultural and horticultural crops, livestock, homes and power infrastructure in Mandi and Kullu districts, leaving a trail of destruction and causing distress to thousands of farmers.
In Mandi district, the storm caused severe damage to standing crops in Seraj, Balh and Karsog. Wheat and peas crops were the worst affected in Seraj and Balh, with initial reports estimating a loss of Rs 36 lakh to the agricultural sector. Damage to the horticulture sector was still being assessed.
Additional District Magistrate (ADM), Mandi, Madan Kumar said that besides crop loss, the storm damaged 36 houses and 29 cowsheds in the district. Also, 16 goats were killed in a lightning strike, resulting in an estimated livestock loss of Rs 35.47 lakh.
Kullu district also bore the brunt of the storm, which impacted apple growers in the region. Deputy Director (Horticulture), Kullu, Uttam Prashar said that the storm caused a loss to the tune of Rs 5.25 crore to the horticulture sector, directly affecting over 5,000 farmers. The worst-hit areas included Kullu, Manali, Banjar, Anni and Nirmand blocks.
Additional District Magistrate, Kullu, Ashwani Kumar said that extensive damage was caused to public property and infrastructure. Two houses were completely destroyed in the Banjar area, while 119 houses sustained partial damage in the district. Besides, 59 cowsheds were reportedly damaged. The power infrastructure also suffered significant damage, leaving several areas without electricity. The total loss to the Electricity Department was being assessed.
The authorities concerned are at present conducting a detailed assessment of the damage caused and preparing reports for state-level disaster relief and compensation. The district administration has assured that affected families and farmers of all possible assistance.
