Mandi, Himachal Pradesh: Torrential monsoon rains and devastating cloudbursts have unleashed chaos across the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, with Mandi district being one of the worst affected. The intervening night of June 30 and July 1 saw unprecedented rainfall that triggered landslides, flash floods, and the complete breakdown of connectivity in the Thunag, Janjhelhi, and Gohar subdivisions.
Roads, Power, and Communication Severed
The intensity of the downpour washed away major road sections, while telecom and electricity networks collapsed, cutting off entire villages from the outside world. The devastation left locals and stranded tourists in a critical situation, unable to access help or basic supplies for days.
SDRF Teams First on Ground
Braving treacherous conditions, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were the first to reach the region on foot, trekking through dangerous terrain and walking 20–25 km daily for multiple days. Their initial priority was to evacuate the injured and critically ill, including expectant mothers, to safer areas.
NDRF Joins Efforts; Drones, Satellite Phones Aid Rescue
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) later joined the effort. Coordination was led by the SP SDRF, who reached the Thunag subdivision headquarters on July 2 and oversaw multiple rescue and relief operations.
Modern technology played a crucial role. Drones were deployed to assess terrain and locate missing persons, while satellite phones ensured uninterrupted communication where conventional networks had failed.
Clearing Roads and Restoring Connectivity
Over the course of 3–4 days, teams worked relentlessly to clear debris and uprooted trees from blocked roads, gradually restoring access to remote villages. Full road connectivity with Mandi town was finally re-established by July 6, bringing much-needed relief to affected communities.
Medical Supplies Airlifted and Delivered on Foot
Beyond evacuations, SDRF and NDRF teams delivered essential medicines, including to chronically ill patients and local clinics. These were either carried on foot or air-dropped via drones, marking a significant upgrade in rapid relief delivery capabilities.
Still Searching for the Missing
Despite these successful efforts, the search for missing persons continues. As per the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), Himachal Pradesh has recorded 80 deaths so far this monsoon season, and several more remain unaccounted for.
SDRF’s Growing Capacity Proves Critical
Officials noted that SDRF’s enhanced training, modern equipment, and proactive readiness were instrumental in managing such a large-scale disaster. Over the past year, the force has added advanced gear including drones, satellite communication devices, and specialized rescue tools, boosting its ability to respond swiftly and efficiently to natural disasters.
