Mandi/Kullu – Relentless heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc across the Kullu and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh, leading to severe flooding, landslides, and large-scale disruption of daily life. Rivers in the region are swollen, prompting widespread alarm and forcing residents in low-lying areas to seek shelter on higher ground.
The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway—a key route for both tourists and locals—has been blocked at multiple points due to falling boulders and mudslides, stranding hundreds of commuters. Authorities have advised people to avoid all non-essential travel until conditions improve.
In Mandi’s Balh subdivision, extensive waterlogging has inundated homes and shops, with residents reporting rising water levels in residential areas. Emergency services are on alert, though accessibility remains a major challenge due to damaged roads and ongoing rainfall.
According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), at least 309 roads, including National Highway 305 (NH-305), remain blocked due to landslides and debris flow. Additionally, 236 water supply schemes and 113 power transformers are currently non-functional, significantly affecting essential services across multiple districts.
Mandi Worst-Hit
Mandidistrict has emerged as the most severely affected, with 23 rain-related deaths and 14 fatalities in road accidents reported so far. The district also leads in infrastructure damage, with 167 roads blocked, and the highest number of disruptions to water supply (74 schemes) and power services (91 transformers).
Other districts have also suffered heavy losses. Kangra has reported 24 weather-related deaths and six fatalities in road mishaps, while Kullu has recorded 10 monsoon-related deaths and eight accident deaths. Casualties and infrastructure damage have also been reported from Chamba and Shimla.
Meanwhile, National Highway 505 in Lahaul-Spiti remains closed following multiple landslides and flash floods, cutting off key access routes in the tribal district.
Massive Damage to Public Property and Crops
The SDMA estimates that the cumulative damage to public infrastructure—including roads, power lines, water systems, schools, and health facilities—has crossed Rs 1,71,495 lakh. Additionally, more than 88,800 hectares of agricultural and horticultural land have been impacted, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.
As the monsoon continues to batter the region, disaster response teams remain on high alert, and efforts are underway to restore essential services and clear blocked roads.
Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious, follow weather advisories, and avoid traveling in vulnerable areas until further notice.
