A severe cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh has caused widespread destruction, leaving one village nearly washed out and resulting in significant loss of life. As of August 3, reports indicate that six bodies have been recovered, and 53 individuals are still missing after the devastating flash floods.

The cloudburst struck several regions, including Samej and Rampur in Shimla, Baghipul in Kullu, and Paddar in Mandi, on the night of July 31 and August 1. The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has confirmed extensive damage, with over 60 houses swept away and multiple villages severely impacted.

Here are the top updates on the situation:

Damage Overview: More than 60 homes have been destroyed by the flash floods, which resulted from the cloudburst. The destruction has heavily affected villages in Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla.

Rescue Operations: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are actively engaged in rescuing stranded villagers.

Infrastructure Repair: Efforts are underway to restore a crucial road linking Rampur and Samej, which was damaged during the floods.

Village Destruction: The village of Samej was completely washed away, with only one house left standing. Survivor Devi recounted fleeing to a local temple, only to find her house as the sole survivor in the morning.

Casualties Report: According to the Himachal Pradesh State Emergency Operation Centre (HPSEOC), Mandi has reported the highest number of casualties with five dead, one from Kullu, and no casualties yet reported from Shimla.

Missing Persons: Shimla leads with 33 missing individuals, followed by Kullu with nine and Mandi with six.

Relief Efforts: 55 people have been evacuated to relief camps, while 25 others remain stranded.

Damage Assessment: The HPSEOC reports that 61 houses were fully damaged and 42 partially damaged, with Kullu experiencing the most significant destruction.

Government Response: Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri visited the affected Baagi Pul area in Kullu, calling the situation "grim and painful." He assured affected families of government support and assessed damage to the Kurpan Khad Water Supply Scheme and other infrastructure, estimating losses at Rs.10 crore.

Infrastructure Impact: Agnihotri also inspected damage to water supply systems in Matiyana, Shimla, noting substantial damage to critical components.

The situation remains critical as rescue and relief operations continue, with efforts focused on providing aid and assessing the full extent of the damage caused by this severe weather event.

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