Shimla: Heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh have triggered multiple landslides and flash floods, leading to the closure of the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway, a key lifeline for both locals and tourists.
According to the State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA), continuous downpours since last night have caused widespread disruption across the hill state. As of Saturday evening, 352 roads, including three national highways, remain blocked, while over 1,000 power transformers and 116 water supply schemes have been damaged.
Officials confirmed that the monsoon death toll since June 20 has risen to 263, with 136 lives lost to rain-related incidents such as flash floods, house collapses, and landslides. Another 127 people have died in road mishaps, often caused by slippery stretches and poor visibility.
The worst-hit district remains Mandi, where 201 roads are closed, including stretches of NH-21 and NH-03. In Kullu, 63 roads are blocked, with NH-305 at Khanag heavily impacted. Landslides have also choked NH-05 in Kinnaur at Tinku Nalla, cutting off several interior regions.
Restoration teams are working around the clock, but officials say continuous rainfall is hampering operations. “The situation is particularly grim in Mandi, Kullu, and Lahaul-Spiti, where road connectivity, electricity, and water supplies have been severely affected,” the HPSDMA said in its statement.
Power outages remain widespread, with Kullu alone reporting 557 damaged transformers, followed by Mandi (385) and Lahaul-Spiti (112). Water services are also in disarray, with 44 schemes down in Mandi and nine in Kullu.
With rain forecasts continuing for the next few days, authorities have urged residents and travelers to avoid unnecessary movement in vulnerable areas. Emergency services remain on high alert as efforts continue to restore connectivity and essential utilities.
