Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday revealed that Mandi district received 123% excess rainfall, while Shimla saw 105%, causing widespread devastation across the state.
Chairing the ninth State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting, the CM said 19 cloudbursts have occurred since the start of the monsoon, resulting in significant human and property losses. He described climate change as one of the most critical challenges facing the state and announced plans to take up the issue of rising cloudbursts with the Union Home Minister.
Sukhu emphasized the importance of scientific muck disposal and directed the SDMA to issue regular weather updates, urging the public to rely only on official sources to avoid misinformation. He also stressed the need for safe construction practices, advising people and government departments to avoid building within 100 metres of water bodies.
To boost disaster preparedness, a new SDRF campus is being developed in Palampur, and a State Institute of Disaster Management will be established at Dr. Manmohan Singh Himachal Institute of Public Administration in Shimla. Himachal Pradesh University will also conduct research on glacial lake threats and involve local communities for awareness.
Referring to last year's monsoon damage, the CM said the state had disbursed ₹1,260 crore for relief, and another ₹138 crore under mitigation funds. A long-term ₹891 crore Disaster Risk Reduction Project, aiming to strengthen SDMA and DDMAs with early warning systems and mitigation planning, is underway and will be completed by March 2030.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

Mandi Hit by 123% Excess Rainfall, Confirms Himachal CM

CM Sukhu says cloudbursts, excess rainfall in Himachal highlight urgent need for climate resilience.

Mandi Hit by 123% Excess Rainfall, Confirms Himachal CM

CM Sukhu says cloudbursts, excess rainfall in Himachal highlight urgent need for climate resilience.

July 8, 2025 | 24:06 IST