A landslide occurred in Chokkar village in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh due to heavy rainfall, causing a 200-meter stretch of the hill to collapse. Five houses were endangered, but the residents are safe. The meteorological department has issued a yellow alert for several districts.
Sirmaur: Continuous rainfall in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh has disrupted normal life. On Saturday, a major landslide incident took place in Chokkar village of Nahanadhaar, where approximately 200 meters of a hillside washed away. This incident has caused great distress to the families residing in the village.
However, it is a relief that all five people present on the hill managed to evacuate to safety in time. Despite this, five houses located in the affected area are still in danger. Local residents are continuously appealing to the administration for help.
Water Pressure Caused the Landslide
The exact cause of the landslide has not been officially clarified, but villagers claim that a subterranean water source suddenly burst. The water pressure weakened the soil, leading to the entire section sliding down the slope.
People stated that soil erosion had been observed in the area for several days. As the rainfall intensified on Saturday morning, this terrifying incident occurred. Since the event, an atmosphere of fear has gripped the village, and people are hesitant to stay in their homes.
Viral Video Heightens Concern
A video of this incident is rapidly going viral on social media. The video clearly shows the debris moving downwards with a rapid flow. Local residents in the video are continuously appealing to those present to move to a safe location.
Following the emergence of the video, an atmosphere of concern prevails across the entire state. People are questioning how long the state will have to grapple with such incidents every monsoon season.
Meteorological Department Issues Alert
The India Meteorological Department has forecast moderate rainfall for Himachal Pradesh for the next six days. A yellow alert has been issued specifically for Una and Bilaspur districts, warning of heavy rain and thunderstorms. In addition, storms and lightning are anticipated in parts of Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur.
The meteorological department stated that light to moderate rain will continue in many areas from September 8 to 12. However, the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall cannot be disregarded. Since June 20, the state has already experienced 133 major landslides, 95 flash floods, and 45 cloudbursts, causing significant damage.
46% More Rainfall in Himachal Than Normal
According to statistics, the monsoon this year has been significantly more active in Himachal Pradesh than usual. From June 1 to September 6, the state recorded an average rainfall of 943.2 millimeters, whereas the normal figure for this period is 648.1 millimeters. This means the state has experienced 46 percent more rainfall this year.
Experts believe that increased rainfall and land instability are contributing to the rise in landslides and flash floods. If this situation persists, more serious crises could arise in the coming days. The administration has placed relief teams on alert in the affected districts and urged people to remain vigilant.
