Timely evacuation saves lives as six houses collapse

Heavy rains triggered the collapse of six houses in the Jaisinghpur area of Palampur region last night, causing widespread damage but no loss of life. The houses, located close to a sinking hill slope, developed cracks in their walls earlier in the day, prompting residents to vacate in time. Their timely evacuation averted a major tragedy when the structures gave way.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate Sanjiv Thakur said the administration had rushed to the site and provided immediate assistance to the affected families. All families have since been shifted to safer locations, including government buildings, until further arrangements are made.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre has sounded an alert for the Kangra valley, warning of possible flash floods, cloudbursts, landslides, mudslides and shooting stones in vulnerable areas. It predicted intense showers at intervals, with rainfall and thunderstorms likely to continue at many places across Himachal from September 3 onwards.

On the restoration front, the HPSEB has resumed power supply in the affected areas of Palampur, Baijnath, and Jaisinghpur, while the Public Works Department has reopened internal roads for traffic. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant as heavy rainfall may further destabilise fragile slopes.