Continuous heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu and Mandi districts has caused severe disruptions. Several rivers are in spate, leading to widespread concerns over safety and infrastructure. The relentless downpour has triggered landslides and waterlogging, severely affecting daily life and road connectivity.
Chandigarh-Manali Highway Blocked
The crucial Chandigarh–Manali National Highway is currently blocked at multiple locations due to falling boulders and mudslides. This has stopped vehicular movement in both directions, leaving hundreds of travelers stranded. Authorities have issued strong advisories urging people to avoid non-essential travel until conditions improve.
Flooding and Waterlogging in Mandi
In Mandi district’s Balh subdivision, heavy rain has caused severe waterlogging in low-lying areas. Floodwaters have entered homes and shops, forcing residents to seek shelter on safer, higher ground.
Widespread Infrastructure Damage
According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), landslides and debris flows have blocked 309 roads, including National Highway 305 (NH-305). Essential services have been disrupted, with 236 water supply schemes and 113 power distribution transformers (DTRs) rendered non-functional.
Mandi stands as the worst-affected district, reporting rain-related casualties and road accident fatalities. It also recorded the highest damage to infrastructure, with 167 roads blocked, significant water supply interruptions (74 schemes), and power outages affecting 91 transformers. Other districts, including Kangra, Kullu, Chamba, and Shimla, have also reported multiple casualties and major damage due to the severe weather.
Key Areas Facing Severe Impact
Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba districts account for the majority of road blockages and public service failures. The National Highway-505 in Lahaul-Spiti remains closed due to landslides and flash floods, cutting off vital access routes and isolating several regions.
Economic and Agricultural Losses
The SDMA’s latest report estimates the cumulative damage to public infrastructure—including roads, power lines, water systems, health facilities, and schools—at over ₹1714.95 crore. Additionally, more than 88,800 hectares of crops in the agriculture and horticulture sectors have been destroyed, causing severe economic strain on local farmers.
