Himachal Pradesh: The toll of lives lost in the wake of incessant rains in India's northern hilly state of Himachal Pradesh has surged to 50, as confirmed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday.

The situation remains dire, with numerous individuals still trapped in rain-affected areas, leading to concerns that the casualty count could further increase.

Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the ongoing challenges as a result of the heavy rainfall and expressed apprehension regarding the potential for additional casualties.

The gravity of the situation has prompted the state government to take proactive measures, mandating the temporary closure of all educational institutions including schools and colleges. This decision has been influenced by the weather forecast indicating the likelihood of continued heavy rainfall in multiple regions of the state.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the prevailing weather conditions may result in moderate to heavy rainfall persisting across the state. As the region grapples with the aftermath of the rains, the IMD's forecast raises concerns about the potential for further disruption and danger.

The state's emergency operation center has reported the closure of a staggering 752 roads, a clear indication of the severe impact the rains have had on transportation and infrastructure. This closure further compounds the challenges faced by rescue and relief operations.

The state machinery is working tirelessly to mitigate the crisis, with rescue teams and local authorities striving to reach those stranded due to the rain-related chaos. The state government's efforts are geared toward providing immediate assistance to affected individuals and areas, while also assessing the overall situation to determine the extent of damage and aid required.

As Himachal Pradesh endures the relentless downpour, efforts continue to address the immediate challenges and plan for the recovery and reconstruction required in the aftermath of this devastating weather event.