Pangi: Life in the remote Pangi Valley of Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district has come to a near halt after heavy snowfall blocked roads and isolated villages, leaving residents struggling to cope with medical emergencies. Amid the crisis, a group of villagers undertook an arduous 33-kilometre journey on foot to ensure a 14-year-old boy received urgent treatment.
The teenager, identified as Sahil from Leo village in Sahli panchayat, fell seriously ill after developing painful mouth ulcers that prevented him from eating or drinking. With road connectivity completely disrupted due to deep snow, reaching a health facility in time appeared almost impossible.
Refusing to give up, villagers carried Sahil on their backs through snow-laden paths to Kuthal Dhank. From there, he was taken by a vehicle up to Sach, beyond which the route was again impassable. The group resumed their journey on foot, navigating slippery stretches and harsh terrain until they reached the Sidh Temple area.
The incident later came to the attention of the Executive Residential Commissioner and Sub-Divisional Officer of Pangi, following which a Public Works Department vehicle was rushed from Killar. Sahil was safely transported to the Civil Hospital in Killar, where doctors confirmed that he is currently undergoing treatment and his condition is stable.
The episode has once again highlighted the worsening situation across Pangi Valley. Several interior villages remain cut off as snow continues to choke roads. While the Public Works Department has begun clearing operations, residents say progress has been slow. They also alleged that key routes under the Border Roads Organisation, including major arterial roads, have not been fully restored even after two days.
Local residents have urged authorities to accelerate snow clearance on a war footing, particularly on the Sach–Sechu road and other crucial internal links. They warned that delays could turn future medical emergencies into life-threatening situations.
Located in the trans-Himalayan belt of Chamba district, Pangi Valley is among Himachal Pradesh’s most isolated tribal regions. Surrounded by high peaks and deep gorges, the valley remains cut off for months every winter, with limited healthcare access and fragile road connectivity posing recurring challenges for its inhabitants.
