Amid active monsoon conditions in Himachal Pradesh, the risk of landslides has increased again in hilly areas. A video has surfaced showing a section of a mountain suddenly collapsing onto a road during rainfall. Heavy debris fell onto the road, disrupting movement for some time. An alert has been issued for heavy rainfall in Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur districts. Fog has also covered several high-altitude areas, reducing visibility to around 50 metres.
During the monsoon, incidents of landslides and falling rocks have repeatedly been reported in Himachal Pradesh’s hilly regions. Rainfall in recent days has affected several road routes, while traffic had to be stopped at some locations because of landslides. Incidents of road damage caused by rain and landslides have also been reported in Solan.
The incident of a mountain section falling onto the road has raised concerns among motorists travelling through the hills. The risk of rocks and debris suddenly falling onto roads remains during rainfall, particularly on routes where incidents of land subsidence or cracks in slopes have previously been reported.
Rainfall combined with fog has further reduced visibility in several hilly areas. With visibility falling to as low as 50 metres, motorists may have limited sight of the road ahead. Drivers have been advised to use headlights, maintain a safe speed and stop at a safe location when necessary.
Weather conditions in Shimla and surrounding hilly areas have been changing, with sudden rainfall and fog developing in some areas. Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is situated on mountain slopes, and heavy rainfall can directly affect road and traffic conditions.
The risk on hilly routes has also increased in Solan and Sirmaur due to rainfall. Sirmaur falls geographically within the Outer Himalayas and Shivalik region, where rainfall can lead to debris falling from slopes at several locations.
The administration and concerned departments are advising people to avoid unnecessary travel in view of the weather conditions. Travelling on hilly roads, particularly at night and during heavy rainfall, is considered safer to avoid. If a landslide has occurred on a route, people should wait for the road to reopen rather than attempt to pass through the affected section.
During the current monsoon season, Himachal Pradesh has already faced problems including rainfall, landslides and road closures. Heavy rainfall in recent days has resulted in the closure of several roads and affected normal life in various districts.
Debris falling from mountains during rainfall can pose a risk not only to traffic but also to power lines, drinking water pipelines and nearby houses. In affected areas, the administration therefore has to assess the safety of surrounding areas along with clearing roads.
The combination of fog and rainfall can increase the risk of accidents on hilly routes. In conditions of low visibility, an approaching vehicle, a rock or debris on the road may become visible suddenly. Motorists are advised to avoid overtaking and maintain sufficient distance from vehicles travelling ahead.
Local residents said debris has fallen repeatedly on several sensitive road routes during rainfall in the past. Keeping departmental machinery ready at such locations can help remove debris from roads more quickly. However, continued rainfall can leave the same locations vulnerable to repeated landslides.
In view of the weather department’s alert, people in Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur have been advised to exercise particular caution. People should avoid visiting rivers, streams and areas vulnerable to landslides. Tourists have also been advised to follow advisories issued by the local administration and police.
