NEW DELHI: The Malaysian High Commission in New Delhi is actively coordinating with Indian authorities to gather information about the 12 Malaysian tourists who are currently stranded in the flood-affected region of Himachal Pradesh. Torrential rains have caused extensive floods and landslides in various parts of northern India, severely impacting the hilly state of Himachal.
Concerned about their loved ones’ welfare, the families of these 12 Malaysian tourists have reached out to the Malaysian diplomatic mission, seeking assistance in locating them. Amizal Fadzli Rajali, Malaysia’s deputy high commissioner, stated that they are actively working with Indian authorities to obtain updates and ensure the safety of the Malaysians in Himachal Pradesh, as reported by Bernama.
The situation in Himachal Pradesh is dire, with mobile communication networks disrupted in several areas and thousands of vehicles stranded due to damaged roads. State officials are making efforts to rescue both local and foreign tourists who are trapped in various locations. Among those affected are 15 Russian tourists who are currently stuck in Kasol, a district in Kullu.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized that the primary focus is to safely evacuate the tourists and subsequently prioritize the repair of infrastructure, including roads, water supplies, and power lines. On Wednesday (July 12), he stated, “We have managed to evacuate 50% of tourists,” with the expectation that this number will increase to 80% by 8pm (India time). The estimated damage to infrastructure stands at approximately US$500 million, with 80% of water and irrigation projects in Himachal severely impacted by the calamity.
Fermenta Biotech Limited, a pharmaceutical company, announced the suspension of its operations in Kullu in response to the heavy monsoon rains. The states of Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana have also experienced substantial damage due to the ongoing monsoon showers. The situation is further compounded by the rising water levels of the Yamuna River, putting Delhi on high alert for potential flooding. Tragically, the heavy rainfall has already claimed the lives of at least 100 individuals in various rain-related incidents across north India. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
