Heavy rainfall and cloudbursts in the Kullu-Manali region have led to significant flooding, prompting the release of water from the Pandoh Dam in Himachal Pradesh. Videos of the dam’s floodgates being opened have gone viral on social media, showing the rising water levels in the Beas River and raising concerns about further flooding.
Pandoh dam (Mandi) today pic.twitter.com/g7vPhTMkE4
— Weatherman Shubham (@shubhamtorres09) August 1, 2024
The Samej Khad area in Rampur, Shimla, and Thaltukhod in Mandi have been severely affected. So far, three people have been confirmed dead, and around 50 others are reported missing.
Pandoh dam situation today in himachal pic.twitter.com/uG9iaXcZAG
— Go Himachal (@GoHimachal_) August 1, 2024
Rescue teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), have been deployed to assist those affected. Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap confirmed that the SDRF is working in the Samej Khad area to help with rescue efforts. “We are doing everything we can to find and assist those impacted,” said Kashyap.
All floodgates of the #Pandoh dam in #HimachalPradesh have been opened.
Stay away from riverfronts in the area and stay safe all. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/46lhcy118T
— Shivani Sharma Dasmahapatra (@_ShivaniSD) August 1, 2024
Union Health Minister and BJP President JP Nadda has urged BJP members to focus on rescue and relief efforts in the affected regions. “The heavy rains and cloudbursts have created serious challenges, highlighting the need for effective disaster management and support for the affected communities,” Nadda stated.
