Mandi: The Himachal Pradesh district of Mandi has been disrupted by heavy rain and thunderstorms in numerous areas. The IMD has warned of severe to very heavy rains, thunderstorms, and gusty winds in a number of Himachal Pradesh districts.

Seven districts—Una, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur—are under an orange alert for May 19 due to the possibility of hailstorms, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Additionally, on May 18 and 19, a yellow alert warning of thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds is in place for some regions.

Through May 21, there is a risk of light rain in a few isolated mid-hill locations and light rain or snow in a few isolated high-hill locations, according to the weather service.

Numerous inconveniences, including power outages and transportation issues, have probably been brought on by the intense rain and thunderstorms. It is recommended that residents remain home and refrain from traveling to regions that are vulnerable to flash floods or landslides.

Emergency reaction teams are on standby to minimize any possible interruptions, and state officials are keeping a close eye on the situation. To protect themselves, residents are urged to exercise caution and abide by safety regulations.

In the meanwhile, an official statement on Sunday said that the 126 MW Larji Hydroelectric Power Project in Kullu district, which sustained significant damage during the severe Beas River floods on July 9 and 10, 2023, has been totally rebuilt and is once again functioning.

The State Government’s prompt action and strong backing enabled the project’s quick resuscitation, which was finished in less than two years and helped prevent significant financial losses.

The State Government first set aside Rs 25 crore for restoration, then Rs 35 crore, and finally Rs 185.87 crore for the project’s full rehabilitation. The engineers and employees of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) were praised by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for their dedication and ceaseless efforts to repair the project.