In the face of catastrophic monsoon devastation in Himachal Pradesh, the Indian Army has emerged as a critical lifeline for the flood-battered Mandi district, where multiple cloudbursts have flattened villages, swept away infrastructure, and left dozens dead or missing.
With roads destroyed and communication lines snapped, Army relief columns have been relying on satellite phones to stay connected with base camps as they push into the worst-affected areas. Thunag village, one of the hardest-hit locations, is now receiving aid after days of isolation.
“Satellite communication systems including ISAT phones, RS STARSV, and HX terminals have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for rescue and relief teams,” a Defence spokesperson said. “Mobile networks are functional only in patches, with Thunag still facing major blackouts.”
Since early July, relentless rain and flash floods have claimed at least 85 lives across Himachal Pradesh, with over 35 people still missing. The deluge has left behind a trail of destruction—boulders, uprooted trees, and debris litter once-thriving villages, now barely recognizable.
Indian Army personnel, in close coordination with the SDRF, NDRF, and local authorities, are leading Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts. Relief columns have been deployed across strategic locations including Thunag, Bagsiad, and Pandoh. On July 6, they successfully cleared a critical mule track between Bagsiad and Thunag, paving the way for the delivery of urgently needed supplies.
On the ground, Army medics are providing first aid and distributing ration kits to displaced families. Relief material has already reached remote villages such as Degi (July 7), Rushad (July 8), and Chapad (July 9), many of which had been completely cut off since the floods began.
The Brigade Commander of the Indian Army is currently in Mandi to review operations and boost morale among the ground teams.
“The Indian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to the people of Himachal Pradesh,” the spokesperson added. “Our teams will continue to support the civil administration for as long as necessary during this crisis.”
As heavy rains continue to lash the region, the Army’s mission is far from over—but for the people of Mandi, their presence is already making the difference between despair and hope.