• Source:JND
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The Himachal Cooperative Bank in Thunag, once a pillar of financial security for the local community, now lies in ruins. Its first floor was completely gutted by the fierce flash floods that ripped through the region, turning a trusted institution into a scene of devastation. For the people who had entrusted their life savings and precious jewellery to the bank, the damage goes far beyond material loss, it's a deeply personal tragedy that has shaken their sense of safety and trust.

The first floor of the two-storey Himachal Cooperative Bank building is submerged in water and choked with debris. The force of the flash floods was so intense that one shutter was completely uprooted, while the other two were left twisted and bent.

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The full extent of the damage remains unclear, but initial estimates suggest losses running into crores of rupees, including jewellery worth several lakhs. A proper assessment will only be possible once the debris is cleared and the premises are made accessible.

Located in the heart of Thunag market, the bank served as a crucial financial hub for the town’s 8,000 residents. It held accounts for around 150 local traders who depended on it for regular transactions.

"It is an old bank and undertakes a lot of transactions every day. However, at present, the cash, documents and lockers kept in the bank have all turned into rubble," said Mr Mohan, according to the NDTV report. 

Some locals are guarding the bank to prevent robbery, as valuables displaced by the floods are at risk of being stolen.

Himachal Flood 

As of July 6, Himachal Pradesh has experienced 23 flash floods, 19 cloudburst events, and 16 landslides since the onset of the monsoon on June 20. According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), the death toll has risen to 78, with 50 fatalities linked directly to rain-related incidents.

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At least 37 people remain missing and 115 have been injured. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast "very heavy rain, thunderstorms with lightning, and squalls" for today, with heavy rainfall expected to continue on July 8 and 9. A red alert has been issued for three districts, Sirmaur, Kangra, and Mandi, while an orange alert is in place for seven others: Shimla, Solan, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Una, Kullu, and Chamba.