Continuous heavy rainfall across Kullu and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh has severely disrupted normal life. Several rivers are in spate, triggering widespread concern, while landslides and waterlogging have crippled connectivity and day-to-day activities.
The Chandigarh–Manali National Highway is blocked at multiple points due to falling boulders and mudslides, halting vehicular movement in both directions. Hundreds of commuters are stranded, and authorities have issued advisories urging people to avoid non-essential travel.
In Mandi district’s Balh subdivision, several low-lying areas are experiencing severe waterlogging. Rainwater has entered homes and shops, forcing residents to move to safer, higher ground.
According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), 309 roads, including National Highway 305 (NH-305), remain blocked due to landslides and debris flows. Additionally, 236 water supply schemes and 113 power distribution transformers (DTRs) are non-functional, significantly affecting essential services.
Mandi has emerged as the worst-affected district, reporting rain-related casualties and fatalities in road accidents. The district also recorded the highest infrastructure damage, with 167 roads blocked, and the maximum disruptions in water supply (74 schemes) and power services (91 transformers). Kangra, Kullu, Chamba and Shimla have also reported multiple casualties and extensive damage due to weather conditions.
Among the worst-hit areas are Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba, which together account for a major share of road blockages and public service breakdowns. National Highway-505 in Lahaul-Spiti also remains closed due to landslides and flash floods, cutting off vital access routes.
The SDMA report further revealed that the cumulative damage to public property – including roads, power lines, water systems, health infrastructure, and schools – exceeds ₹1,71,495 lakh, while over 88,800 hectares of crops in agriculture and horticulture have been damaged.
(ANI)