Prime Minister Modi is keeping a close watch on the situation in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, following heavy rains and cloudbursts in the state, sources reported on Thursday. He has directed senior officials to provide all necessary assistance to those affected, with relief operations currently in full swing.

Opposition Leader and Congress member Rahul Gandhi contacted Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to evaluate the situation after a cloudburst caused significant disruption in Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu districts. He expressed sorrow over the incidents, describing them as “extremely sad.” In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

“The news of the death and disappearance of many people due to cloudburst and heavy rains in Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu is extremely sad. I express my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families in this difficult time,” he wrote on X. He also mentioned that the NDRF, SDRF, and state administration are diligently conducting relief and rescue operations. “I have spoken to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu ji and reviewed this difficult situation. He said that he himself is visiting these incident sites and meanwhile, NDRF, SDRF and the state administration are continuously involved with commitment to relief and rescue operations in this hour of crisis. I am hoping that all the missing people are found as soon as possible,” he added.

The Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister reported that around 50 people are missing, with 2 bodies recovered. “Cloudburst occurred in Mandi, Shimla and Kullu districts today. Around 50 people are missing, 2 bodies have been recovered. NDRF, SDRF, DCs and officials are present at the spot. We have instructed the officials to make all arrangements. We have also sought help from the army. I appeal to people not to go near canals and rivers. The Air Force has been asked to be ready,” CM Sukhu said. He mentioned that he would visit the affected areas once the weather clears and noted that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has promised all possible support.

“The Union Home Minister has assured all possible help and said that 2 additional NDRF teams are being sent. BJP chief Nadda also called twice and said that Prime Minister Modi is also worried,” he added. CM Sukhu also confirmed speaking with Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. “I have also spoken to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and LoP Rahul Gandhi. I have said that the situation is under control, but roads and infrastructure have been damaged. Manali has lost connectivity,” he said.

Due to heavy rains, the water level in the Beas River has risen. Mandi police reported that during the heavy rainfall last night, a cloudburst occurred in Village Rajban near Terang, under the jurisdiction of Police Post Tikkan in Police Sub Division Padhar. The cloudburst resulted in two houses being completely washed away and one partially damaged.

A statement from the district administration in Mandi noted that due to the heavy rains, the water levels of the Beas River have increased, causing silting. Consequently, the gates of the Pandoh Dam have been opened to release water and silt. The administration has advised residents to avoid going near the river.