Himachal Pradesh is reeling under the impact of relentless rainfall, flash floods, and sudden cloudbursts that struck multiple districts on Wednesday, triggering massive rescue operations as disaster management teams race against time to locate the missing and protect survivors.

In Kangra district, two bodies were recovered from the Manuni Khad, while 15–20 workers are feared missing after a surge of floodwater swept through a labour colony near the Indira Priyadarshini Hydroelectric Project site. The workers were reportedly resting in temporary shelters when floodwaters — redirected by nearby overflowing drains — hit the colony with force.

Authorities confirmed that project work had been halted due to inclement weather, but the overnight deluge proved far worse than anticipated. Local officials, along with teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local administration, revenue department, and gram panchayat, have launched search and rescue operations. Some workers have been found safe, providing hope amid the tragedy.

BJP MLA from Dharamsala, Sudhir Sharma, shared the update via social media, confirming, “About 20 workers were swept away in the incident near Khaniyara. Rescue teams are on-site, and efforts are underway.”

Meanwhile, in Kullu district, cloudbursts at Jeeva Nallah, Rehla Bihal (Sainj), and Shilagarh (Gadsa area) unleashed flash floods that damaged homes, schools, shops, roads, and bridges. Three residents from Rehla Bihal attempting to save their belongings were swept away and remain missing, officials said.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, response teams continue to work round the clock. The Himachal Pradesh government, disaster authorities, and local volunteers are coordinating to evacuate vulnerable areas, restore connectivity, and prevent further loss of life.