Flood-Hit Families in Thunag Get a Ray of Hope, But Many Still Cut Off Awaiting Relief
Women, children receive essential aid; volunteers step in as administration lags behind
THUNAG (MANDI), JULY 8:
Even as official relief and rehabilitation efforts remain slow, over 230 flood-hit and displaced villagers in Thunag subdivision have found a fresh lease of life—thanks to the timely intervention of Him Social Service Committee, a local voluntary group that has stepped in where the system staggered.
From hot meals and tea being served at a langar at the Mini Secretariat Thunag, to sanitary pads provided to young girls and women, the relief has come not just as a lifeline, but also as an emotional balm to those who lost homes, belongings, and in some cases, hope.
Women and Children First
"Most of the displaced are school-going girls and women, who were in urgent need of basic hygiene items. We’re trying to meet their needs first," said a volunteer with the Him Social Service Committee.
Relief camps have been buzzing with volunteers serving hot food, distributing clothes, and offering support to traumatised families.
Hundreds Still Awaiting Help in Remote Pockets
While this ray of hope shines in Thunag town, the reality in far-flung areas is grim. Aerial surveys conducted recently have mapped dozens of villages completely cut off, with no road or foot connectivity.
These populations have had no official relief or rescue yet. Eyewitnesses and local reports suggest that damage assessment is yet to begin in many interior hamlets of Seraj valley.
"There are villages up the ridge, around Baga Chanogi and Majhakanda, where we still haven’t been able to reach.
People are reportedly surviving on stored grains and spring water," a local official admitted on condition of anonymity.
Tea, Meals, and Hope
Volunteers at the relief site say that over hundreds of flood-displaced villagers have been served daily with meals, fritters, tea, and whatever is available at hand. “We’re working on need-based assessment, not just numbers,” said an organiser from the committee.
Despite the ongoing rain and logistical challenges, the community support has managed to create a semblance of stability for the rescued.
Official Machinery Yet to Catch Up
Locals have expressed concern over the slow pace of government-led relief operations. With roads damaged and many power and water supply schemes down, villagers in remote areas remain out of communication and support.
The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) repor over 150 road blockages in Mandi district alone, but ground-level outreach remains patchy.
“We need more than surveys—we need boots on the ground, helicopters in the air, and quick rehabilitation,” said a former panchayat representative from Thunag.
Hope Amid Hardship
In the face of adversity, what’s emerging is the resilience of locals and the power of community action. Relief volunteers in Thunag aren’t just distributing food—they’re giving hope.
But with monsoon clouds still looming, the clock is ticking for those still stranded in the hinterlands.
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