Cloudburst in Himachal's remote valley

A cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul-Spiti district has resulted in more than 100 livestock, a bridge and a 150-metre stretch of road being washed away. No loss of human life has been reported.

The cloudburst occurred in Changut village of the Miyar Valley, some 55 km from here, Thursday night, Deputy Commissioner B.S. Thakur told IANS.

"The flash floods have washed away huge chunks of agricultural land and the road," he added.

Legislator Ravi Thakur said several villages in the valley have been cut off as road links have been disrupted.

He said pea growers were worst affected as their crop couldn't be transported.

"We have sought immediate relief of Rs.5 crore from the state government for restoration works and giving compensation to the affected families," Thakur added.

The picturesque Miyar Valley is known for growing peas and potatoes.

The climatic condition of the entire Lahaul and Spiti district, dominated mainly by tribals, is harsh as much of the land falls under a cold desert where the temperature plummets to as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius in winter.