NEW DELHI: Severe flooding in Himachal Pradesh’s Manali has destroyed the iconic Sher-e-Punjab restaurant, leaving only its front wall standing. Situated just a few feet from the Beas River, the establishment was swept away after the Largi Dam released 20,000 cusecs of water, raising river levels significantly.

Iconic restaurant reduced to rubble

Sher-e-Punjab was a landmark eatery known for its authentic North Indian cuisine and had been a popular stop for tourists and locals alike. Over the years, the restaurant had welcomed several Bollywood celebrities and sports personalities. Videos circulating on social media show debris scattered across the area, with the restaurant almost entirely washed away.

Himachal Pradesh reels under heavy rainfall

Himachal Pradesh has been enduring relentless monsoon rains since June 20, causing landslides, flash floods, and widespread destruction. According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), at least 310 people have died in rain-related incidents so far.

  • Casualties by district: Mandi (29), Kangra (30), Chamba (14), Kinnaur (14), and Kullu (13).

  • Other fatalities: 33 people have drowned, while landslides and flash floods have claimed 19 lives.

    • Red alert issued for key districts

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi for two days. Drone visuals from Mandi reveal dangerously high water levels in the Beas River, fuelling fears of further damage in low-lying areas.

    Infrastructure damage estimated at ₹2.45 lakh crore

    The scale of destruction across Himachal Pradesh is staggering:

    • Roads: ₹1.31 lakh crore damage (Public Works Department)

  • Irrigation and water supply: ₹87,226 crore (Jal Shakti Vibhag)

  • Power infrastructure: ₹13,946 crore

    • Total estimated losses to public property stand at over ₹2.45 lakh crore.

    Conclusion

    The loss of Sher-e-Punjab restaurant symbolises the devastation faced by Manali and other flood-hit areas of Himachal Pradesh. With red alerts still in place and damages continuing to mount, the state faces an uphill task of recovery and rebuilding in the wake of one of the worst monsoon disasters in recent years.