Himachal Pradesh is currently facing a severe weather challenge as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in several districts. The forecast warns of “heavy to very heavy rainfall with isolated spells of extremely heavy” rains in parts of Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts over the next 24 hours. This alarming prediction has prompted the state government to take immediate safety measures.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged residents to avoid traveling during the night hours and has particularly advised those residing in landslide-prone areas to vacate their houses temporarily to ensure their safety. With the possibility of flash floods looming large, the IMD has also cautioned about moderate to high flash flood risks in districts including Shimla, Sirmaur, Kangra, Chamba, Mandi, Hamirpur, Solan, Bilaspur, and Kullu.
The heavy rainfall has already wreaked havoc across the region, with some areas receiving substantial amounts of precipitation. Bilaspur experienced 181 mm of rain, Berthin recorded 160 mm, Shimla received 132 mm, and Mandi saw 118 mm. This heavy rainfall has triggered concerns over landslides and potential flooding.
In response to the challenging weather conditions and to ensure the safety of the region’s inhabitants, the Himachal Pradesh government has taken a significant step by halting the operations of all stone crushers on both perennial and non-perennial rivulets of the Beas river basin and its tributaries. This decision aims to protect human settlements and infrastructure from the impact of landslides and flash floods that have been aggravated by the ongoing monsoon.
While the move to halt stone crusher operations underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the state’s ecosystem, it’s important to note that legal mining leases have not been canceled. The focus remains on maintaining the fragile ecology and environment of the region while also ensuring the safety of the population.
The red alert and the precautionary measure to halt stone crusher operations demonstrate the government’s proactive approach to tackling the challenges posed by heavy rainfall, landslides, and potential flash floods. These efforts are aimed at minimizing damage, safeguarding lives, and protecting the environment in Himachal Pradesh as the region navigates through the monsoon season.