Additionally, the state has witnessed 21 fatalities within the past 24 hours due to the adverse weather conditions. CM said, “20-25 people are trapped under debris here (Summer Hill, Shimla). 21 people dead in the last 24 hours in the state. I appeal to people to stay indoors, to not venture near rivers and landslide-prone areas. Restoration works will begin as soon as rain stops.”

“SDRF, NDRF and Army are present on the spot to carry out rescue operations and save lives….I have cancelled my pre-scheduled event in Mandi. August 15 Independence Day program will go on as usual but our priority is to save lives,” CM added.

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and state minister Vikramaditya Singh are present on the spot of the landslide in Shimla.

Meanwhile, India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted widespread light to moderate rains in many districts of the state including Shimla district from August 12-14.

Also Read: Himachal Pradesh: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in eight districts, issues orange alert

The Himachal Pradesh police have issued an advisory to citizens asking them to avoid unessential travel and travel at night in areas where roads are not proper as the landslides and rockslides are not visible.

“Due to incessant rains in the state, there are reports of rockslides and landslides. Avoid unessential travel. Also, avoid travelling at night in areas where roads are not proper as the landslides and rockslides are not visible. Stay smart- Stay safe,” tweeted Himachal Police.

The monsoon’s relentless impact persists in Himachal Pradesh, instigating landslides and sudden floods. Adding to the sequence of events, a recent landslide occurred in the Bilaspur district on Saturday. 

Meanwhile, Tikender Singh Panwar, an environmentalist, social activist, and former Deputy Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation, has taken legal action by filing a First Information Report (FIR) against the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and the construction company GR Infra responsible for the four-lane project.

The FIR was lodged at Parwanoon Police station in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh. The complaint pertains to the construction practices employed, which are alleged to be unscientific and in violation of regulations, leading to the devastating consequences of landslides, floods, and loss of life during heavy rainfall in the region.

(With inputs from ANI)

Updated: 14 Aug 2023, 12:34 PM IST