Yellow weather warning issued for Kangra, Kullu and Mandi districts
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Himachal Pradesh
Supreme Court rules in favour of govt that sought 18 per cent free electricity
Himachal Pradesh's monsoon-related losses have reached Rs 883.15 crore, with 64 fatalities. The state has faced numerous flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides. Road closures, disrupted utilities, and continued heavy rainfall are expected through July 22, with orange weather warnings in place.
Health Minister Shandil visited disaster-affected areas in Dharampur, assessing damage and relief efforts. He announced financial aid for displaced families, including house reconstruction assistance, rental aid, and compensation for losses. He also inspected healthcare facilities and announced enhancements, including a new Block Public Health Unit and upgrades at Dharampur hospital.
The deceased has been identified as Abhay of Sector 15-D
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The Kalka-Shimla toy train service resumed after a five-day disruption due to bridge repairs. Bridge No. 800, damaged by floods in August 2023, was successfully repaired. The UNESCO World Heritage railway is a popular tourist route.
Himachal Pradesh is considering controlled cannabis cultivation for revenue, particularly for hemp products. Despite past delays, the current government is exploring legal frameworks and has studied cultivation in other states. Strict regulations, including CCTV surveillance for pharmaceutical use, are planned. Farmers and businesses are eager to capitalize on the market potential.
Solan police will investigate truck drivers and owners to prevent fraud in apple trade. APMC will issue IDs to commission agents. CCTV cameras, traffic police deployment, and regular patrols will be implemented. A WhatsApp group will facilitate coordination for a safe and crime-free apple season.
Cybercrime complaints: The state has seen a staggering rise in cybercrime complaints, with 6 victims every 15 minutes, totalling over 1,200 complaints in 2025 so far.
Over 100 volunteers collected over 200 kg of waste at Chogan landing site
Dehra police arrested M/s Qurax Pharma for counterfeiting 'Kamraj Capsule,' violating trademark and copyright laws. A raid at their Sansarpur Terrace facility yielded manufacturing materials and counterfeit capsules. Authorities urge citizens to report suspected counterfeit medicine activities.
A Himalayan trinket snake was rescued from the DGP's residence in Shimla. The non-venomous snake was safely released by the Forest Department's RRT. The department has conducted numerous wildlife rescues, highlighting the need for conservation and urban wildlife management.
Himachal Pradesh will bring its entire state under the Town and Country Planning Act. Rural areas will authorize panchayats for house construction permissions. The state aims to prepare a draft plan with the Rural Development Department to address unregulated construction and recurring disasters. The TCP will collaborate with the SPA to develop regional plans.
Shyam Bhagat Negi, a 1990 batch IPS officer, is returning from central deputation. He's on a panel of three recommended for regular DGP, alongside Ashok Tiwari (1993) and Rakesh Aggarwal (1994). Tiwari currently holds the additional DGP charge and is due to retire in 2029, while Negi retires in March 2026.
Protesters in Shimla demonstrated against NHAI and Gawar Construction Company due to construction-related damages to homes. They demanded compensation and called for blacklisting Gawar, citing negligence and environmental concerns. A larger protest is planned for August 7th if demands are unmet.
Pinegrove School hosted the IC3 Regional Forum, focusing on integrating counseling within schools to address evolving workplace needs. The event featured talks on career dynamics, future-proofing students, and an accompanying university fair.
Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar inaugurated the new Shilaru agricultural market in Shimla. The market, already inaugurated online in June 2025, aims to provide fair prices for farmers' produce, including apples and vegetables. It includes 28 shops and will soon offer online access, with further infrastructure development planned.
Operation Khukri, a daring Indian military mission in Sierra Leone, rescued over 500 UN peacekeepers held hostage by rebels in July 2000. The successful operation, a rare offensive in peacekeeping, restored UN credibility and proved the Indian Army's bravery. Veterans are calling for greater recognition of this under-acknowledged mission.
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No langars or pilgrimage at temple this Sawan
Wall of resilience: Chharudu’s lifeline road to get permanent flood and landslide shield
The Kangra Horticulture Department is distributing 60,000 fruit plants, including citrus, mango, and others, to farmers during the monsoon season. The plants are sold at subsidized rates. While apple cultivation exists, its performance in lower altitudes is challenged by climate and pests.
Flashfloods, cloudbursts, and landslides severely damaged Thunag sub-division. Relief efforts are underway, with 189 of 241 damaged water schemes temporarily restored. Ten major roads are fully reopened, and 23 partially. Power infrastructure repairs are also progressing, with most transformers restored.
Himachal Pradesh will support Ladakh's education sector. They will provide structured training for teachers and principals. Ladakhi teachers will be enrolled in Himachal Pradesh University's distance education programs to attain formal teaching credentials. Himachal Pradesh will also share its training framework and support Ladakh in implementing a principal/headmaster training program through IIMs.
Despite a court stay, the BDO office relocation from Nagrota Surian to Jawali hasn't been reversed. Locals resent the delay, citing departmental inaction. The Sangharsh Samiti is filing a contempt petition. The BDO claims to await official instructions. The next court hearing is August 5.
On the edge: Wake-up call from hills as green slopes change to grey ruins
Three teenagers were rescued from the Yamuna River near Paonta Sahib after getting trapped in swollen waters. Police responded to a distress call and, with the help of expert divers from Uttarakhand, conducted a five-hour rescue using a specialized technique, safely bringing all three boys to shore.
A ceremony at Gorkha Bhawan in Dharamsala celebrated the release of Dr. Rajendra Singh Gurung's books and honored his contributions to literature and music. The event featured tributes, performances, and reflections on his legacy, especially his work preserving Kangra's folk heritage.
Palampur, a tourist town, struggles with a rising stray dog population, impacting safety and public health. Despite court orders, authorities haven't acted. Locals demand sterilization programs and address anti-rabies vaccine shortages due to increasing dog bite incidents, mainly affecting children.
Water bills under scrutiny: Jal Shakti Dept explains new tariff structure
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