New Delhi (Agency): The picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh have turned treacherous as heavy rains have unleashed chaos, triggering landslides and flash floods across the region. The Chandigarh-Manali highway, a crucial thoroughfare, has been severely affected, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded for hours on end. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has reported the closure of 83 roads and two national highways in Himachal Pradesh, with 35 roads blocked in the Mandi district alone. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the state, cautioning residents of continued rainfall and potential hazards.
The relentless downpour over the past 48 hours has wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh, with Mandi district bearing the brunt of the deluge. Surendra Paul, IMD Director of Himachal Pradesh, stated, “There has been widespread rain in the last 24 hours. Mandi district has received maximum rainfall. This condition will persist for about four to five days.” The orange alert serves as a warning for residents and authorities to remain vigilant and prepared for further disruptions.
The aftermath of the heavy rainfall has resulted in extensive traffic blockades and congestions, leaving countless vehicles stranded for hours, and in some cases, overnight. Sagar Chander, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Mandi, highlighted the challenges faced by motorists. “Flash floods occurred in the Khoti Nala area, blocking the National Highway for several hours. The influx of tourists returning from Manali exacerbated the situation, causing a three-hour-long jam,” he said. Efforts have been made to clear the blocked routes and divert water flow to ensure safe passage.
However, clearance work continues in the Pandoh-Mandi area, where multiple landslides have impeded progress. Chander noted, “Work went on till 2:30 am, but it had to be stopped due to continuously falling stones and intermittent landslides. The clearance work resumed in the morning, but it will take more than four hours to fully reopen the roads. Machines are operating from both ends.” Authorities, including members of the local Gurudwara, have rallied together to provide assistance to stranded individuals.
The adverse weather conditions have not spared other districts either. In Kullu, a flash flood in Bagipul has resulted in road closures, trapping around 40 vehicles and a student bus carrying approximately 55 passengers. Authorities and locals have collaborated to arrange for food and temporary accommodations for those stranded.
The IMD has issued alerts for very heavy rainfall in the coming days, heightening concerns over the possibility of further landslides and disruptions. Specific areas, such as Kullu-Kataula, have already experienced landslides due to the heavy rains, leading to road closures. While efforts are underway to reopen these routes, officials estimate that it may take several hours to restore normal traffic flow.
As the situation unfolds, commuters on the Chandigarh-Manali highway express their frustrations and anxieties. Vikram, one of the stranded individuals, shared his experience, stating, “We arrived here at around 7 am, but heavy traffic greeted us. We learned about the roadblock caused by a landslide. Authorities have indicated that it will be cleared by 1 pm. If that happens, we will continue our journey; otherwise, we may have to turn back.” Tourists, including a visitor from Scotland, also voiced their concerns about the uncertain circumstances.
The torrential rains and resulting disruptions serve as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable power and the need for adequate preparedness and infrastructure to mitigate the impact of such events. The authorities continue to work diligently to clear the blocked roads and ensure the safety of the stranded individuals. It is crucial for residents and travelers to stay informed, exercise caution, and follow official instructions to navigate through this challenging period.