Heavy rainfall and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh have caused widespread damage. Sudden floods in Kullu and Mandi districts have swept away numerous vehicles, and hundreds of roads have been blocked by landslides.
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh is experiencing widespread damage due to heavy rainfall and snowfall. Sudden floods in Kullu and Mandi districts have swept away many vehicles, and hundreds of roads are blocked by landslides. 583 roads, including five national highways, are closed in the state, causing severe traffic disruptions. The administration has issued a high alert and advised people to stay indoors.
Floods and Landslides Disrupt Life
Heavy rainfall and landslides in Kullu, Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, and Lahaul-Spiti districts have resulted in large accumulations of mud and debris on roads. In Kullu district, many vehicles have been submerged in floodwaters, while others have been swept away by b currents. According to the administration, many important routes, including the Manali-Leh highway, are closed, causing significant hardship for residents and tourists.
Power and Water Supply Disrupted
Heavy rainfall and snowfall have resulted in the shutdown of 2263 distribution transformers (DTRs), disrupting power supply in many areas. Furthermore, the closure of 279 water supply projects has caused severe water shortages. The meteorological department has forecast more heavy rainfall and snowfall in the coming days. Due to western disturbances, there is a possibility of snowfall in the higher reaches of Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kullu. The department has advised people to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel.
Chief Minister Sukhu Appeals
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has appealed to the public to remain cautious and follow the administration's instructions. He stated, "We are continuously monitoring the situation. Stay away from rivers and streams due to the risk of rising water levels. The administration is fully alert, and rescue operations are underway." State administration and NDRF teams are continuously engaged in rescue operations.
People stranded in Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla are being moved to safer locations. Restoration of power supply in Manali and Kullu is underway, but inclement weather is hampering relief efforts in many areas. Up to one foot of snow has been reported in Manali, leading to the closure of educational institutions. Tourists are also stranded due to heavy snowfall. The administration has instructed their safe relocation.
The Kullu Deputy Commissioner, Torul S Ravi, has appealed to people to stay indoors and remain in safe locations until the water levels recede. He stated that continuous rainfall may increase the river's velocity, potentially worsening the situation.
