Watch: Pandoh Dam releases floodwater after Himachal Pradesh's cloudburst triggers flooding

Videos of water being released from Pandoh Dam in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, have gone viral on social media. Authorities opened the floodgates after heavy rainfall and cloudbursts in the Kullu-Manali region raised water levels in the Beas River, causing concerns about further flooding.

Cloudbursts on Thursday morning have severely impacted Samej Khad in Rampur, Shimla, and Thaltukhod in Mandi's Padhar subdivision. So far, three people have been confirmed dead, and approximately 50 others are reported missing. Rescue teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), have been mobilized to locate and assist affected individuals.




Shimla deputy commissioner Anupam Kashyap confirmed that an SDRF team has been dispatched to Samej Khad to aid in rescue operations.

"Efforts are underway to locate and assist those affected," stated Shimla deputy commissioner Anupam Kashyap.

Union health minister and BJP President JP Nadda has urged BJP cadres to focus on rescue and relief efforts for the impacted regions.

"Heavy rains and subsequent cloudbursts have brought significant challenges to the region, emphasizing the urgent need for effective disaster management and support for the affected communities," said JP Nadda.