Kullu/Mandi: The Chandigarh-Manali highway remains closed as continuous heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has brought large parts of Kullu and Mandi districts to a standstill, with rivers overflowing, and critical infrastructure crippled.
The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway, a key lifeline for tourists and locals, has been obstructed at several points due to massive landslides and falling boulders, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel as road-clearing operations continue amid challenging weather conditions.
In Mandi’s Balh subdivision, low-lying areas have been submerged, with rainwater entering homes and shops. Many residents have been forced to move to safer locations. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) stated that 309 roads, including the crucial NH-305, remain blocked, while 236 water supply schemes and 113 power transformers are out of service, severely impacting daily life.
Heavy Loss of Lives and Property
Mandi district has reported the highest number of casualties, with 23 rain-related deaths and 14 fatalities in road accidents. It has also suffered the greatest infrastructure damage, with 167 roads blocked, 74 water supply schemes disrupted, and 91 transformers rendered non-functional. Kangra has recorded 24 weather-related deaths and six accident fatalities, followed by Kullu with 10 monsoon deaths and eight accident-related fatalities. Chamba and Shimla have also been significantly affected.
Lahaul-Spiti’s National Highway-505 is also closed due to landslides and flash floods. Meanwhile, the SDMA has estimated the damage to public property, including roads, power lines, schools, and health facilities, at over Rs 1,71,495 lakh. Additionally, more than 88,800 hectares of farmland, particularly in agriculture and horticulture, have been severely impacted.
Officials continue to work around the clock to restore connectivity and essential services, but persistent rainfall is hampering relief efforts.
