Heavy rains devastated the Shahpur region in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, following a cloudburst, leading to flash floods in Spada and Garhgun villages in Boh Valley. At least 14 houses were damaged or washed away, including 10 houses in Garhgun village and four houses along with cattle sheds in Spada. Several cattle are also feared to have been buried under the debris.
No loss of life has been reported, as residents managed to escape the area in time. As the clouds burst, water along with debris flowed from the hilltops, creating a havoc with houses destroyed and debris spreading in the area.
As soon as the information was received, the local administration reached the village. Teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been called in, and relief and rescue operations are underway. Many houses have been destroyed, but the structure of the other houses is good.
Panic spread among residents after the event, and some families in the vulnerable hillside zones were displaced from their homes. Local authorities increased security monitoring and aid efforts while initial reports indicate that there were no injuries.
SDM Shahpur Issues Safety Advisory
Shahpur SDM Dr Ganesh Thakur said he was on his way to the affected area, but a major landslide near the Dibba and Maned drains had hindered access. He said the administration is closely monitoring the situation and urged people to stay away from rivers, streams, and drains due to the strong water flow.
Flood Threat Looms Over Nyangal Village
In a separate incident, around 15 houses in Nyangal village in Jawali are under threat after the course of a local drain shifted due to heavy rains. The overflowing drain also damaged agricultural fields. Although the water level has since receded, fear continues to grip residents.