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**Himachal Pradesh Braces for Landslides as Heavy Rains Lash the State**

**Shimla, India -** Following days of torrential rainfall, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a landslide warning for Himachal Pradesh, identifying 18 out of 22 landslide-prone locations as currently under threat. The incessant rain has crippled infrastructure, disrupting power supply to approximately 130 areas and impacting water supply across the state.

The heavy downpour has also resulted in widespread road closures, with 259 roads currently blocked due to flash floods, landslides, debris, and erosion. Rail services on the Shimla-Kalka line were temporarily suspended due to fallen trees and debris on the tracks.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, acting on the IMD’s red alert for heavy rain, ordered the closure of schools in Mandi, Kangra, Solan, and Sirmaur districts on June 30th. Minister Jagat Singh Negi convened a review meeting with officials from various departments to assess the situation and coordinate preparedness efforts.

Tragically, the adverse weather has already claimed lives. Over the past 24 hours, three fatalities were reported, bringing the total death toll from this monsoon season to 20. The deaths included two drownings in Bilaspur and Una, and one incident in Shimla involving a fall from a height.

Landslides are causing significant disruptions, including a major landslide near Koti on the Shimla-Kalka National Highway (SH-5), resulting in hours-long traffic jams.

In Shimla’s Bhatta Kufer area, a five-story building collapsed, reportedly due to nearby construction related to a four-lane road project. While the building had been evacuated the previous night, authorities have also evacuated residents from five other nearby buildings due to safety concerns. An investigation into the building’s collapse is underway. The Himachal Pradesh government is urging residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution and stay informed about weather updates.

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