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Manali snow scam: This viral video may make you rethink your mountain plans
Manali snow scam Video: A tourist's viral video from Manali has ignited a debate, alleging local guides are scamming visitors with a small, artificial snow patch for skiing. While some users decry it as a scam, others argue it highlights the need for tourists to check seasonal conditions before traveling.
Messi event chaos: Bengal police summon six event managers for quizzing, arrest five for vandalism
KOLKATA: The West Bengal Police on Monday sent summons to officials of six organisations, which were in charge of managing various aspects of the Lionel Messi event at the Salt Lake stadium , where spectators resorted to large-scale chaos and vandalism two days ago, alleging gross mismanagement, an officer said. Acting on an FIR on the spectator rampage that led to an estimated loss of over Rs 2 crore of stadium properties, police have also arrested five people so far on charges of vandalism and assault on police personnel. Among the notices which were served to the event organisers included those to Laltu Das, manager of Satadru Datta -- the now arrested prime organiser of the event, police said. Summonses were also dispatched by the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate to Manali Bhattacharya, an event manager, Supriya Dasgupta, Sambaran Karmakar, Aditya Das and Amit Kumar, a senior official of a food delivery aggregator. All six officials, police said, were involved in managing the marquee event at the stadium in their respective capacities. They have been asked to be present for questioning at the commissionerate office on Tuesday, the police officer added. Messi event chaos: State inquiry panel, Bengal Governor inspect Salt Lake stadium Sources said that Das, who represented organiser Satadru Datta at a meeting with senior police officials, where the standard operating procedures were discussed threadbare a day prior to the December 13 programme, will be questioned for allegedly violating the dos and don'ts while organising the event. The police are also trying to pinpoint accountability for allowing unauthorised food and beverage sales inside the stadium, the containers of which were later used as missiles by the irate crowd during the rampage. Meanwhile, the Bidhannagar Police arrested five spectators on charges of vandalism and destruction of public property during the stadium violence. The police said the suspects were identified based on video footage evidence and booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita pertaining to destruction of public property, obstructing public servants from discharging duty and assaulting personnel in uniform. The process of identifying and booking other suspects in the stadium vandalism and violence is currently underway, the officer said. Satadru Datta , the prime organiser of the marquee event, was arrested on Saturday, shortly after the stadium fiasco. The latest bookings take the arrest figure to six. Messi's India visit: Kolkata event flops, Hyderabad makes up
New ABC centre in Manali to mitigate Norths stray woes
High voltage transformer catches fire at Manali substation
The heat generated by the fault caused a small fire which was later brought under control
Transformer burns down at Manali, no power disruption
Study offers AI solution tomanage Goa as tourist place
Abdul Wahab Khan Panaji Goas pristine beaches, misty hills of Shimla, Manalis mountain landscapes and Jaipurs heritage monuments are buckling under unprecedented tourist pressure, but an artificial intelligence (AI) system may offer a solution. A team of six researchers from Indian institutions has developed a data-driven sustainable preservation approach that promises to transform how the [] The post Study offers AI solution tomanage Goa as tourist place appeared first on The Navhind Times .
From Deepika to Sara - What Bollywood Stars Actually Pack for Vacations
From pretty dresses to hydrating mists, Bollywood celebrities travel with essentials that keep them stylish and comfortable. Whether its Maldives or Manali, stars like Deepika, Kiara, and Janhvi pack smart, breathable outfits, multitasking skincare, and chic accessories. Heres how they keep it fashionable yet practical.
Greater Chennai Corporation turns to nature for restoration of lakes, ponds
CHENNAI: As part of its ongoing efforts to restore ponds and lakes across the city, the Greater Chennai Corporation has now turned to the Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) approach in at least two places the Kadapakkam lake and the Sadayakuppam lake. While the work is almost complete in Kadapakkam, the same approach will now be used in Sadayankuppam. The NbS, prioritises eco-restoration by relying on natural methods and avoiding concrete structures while enhancing the well-being of the local community. It also ensures the local communitys rights are not disturbed, a senior corporation official said. Sadayankuppam in Manali New Town often gets flooded, especially when the Poondi and Puzhal reservoirs are opened during the monsoons. A detailed project report is now being prepared for restorating the lake through NbS approach at an estimated cost of Rs 33 crore. The lakes inlet is located in the northern part, and its surplus water flows out on the eastern side, about 400m away, into the Kosasthalaiyar river. Speaking to TNIE, a corporation official said the project involves the construction of sedimentation pond at lake inlet, to protect the water quality and depth of the water body. This helps the sediment-laden soil settle in the inlet before the runoff is discharged. The project also includes improvement of water channel, desilting and dredging of lake, construction of protective bund, creation of bird island using green materials, afforestation, walking track, introduction of indigenous freshwater fishes and aquatic plants, provision of recreational facilities and landscaping, enhancement of the flood-storage capacity and thus the preservation and restoration of the lakes catchment as green flood-mitigation infrastructure. The project mirrors GCCs approach in Kadapakkam in Manali, which began in August 2024 and is expected to be over by February 2026. The project has been carried out at a cost of Rs 58.33 crore, funded by Asian Development Bank and Global Environment Facility. An official involved in the project said while ADB is also funding grey infrastructure for construction of stormwater drains under integrated urban flood management for Chennai, this green infrastructure helps to cut costs and supports to maintain natural ecosystem. Earlier, the lake remained neglected, filled with invasive species, reducing its water-holding capacity with just 1.19 million cubic metres. However, following the restoration, the lake which has a spread of 134.89 acres and a catchment area of 13.4 sq.km, now has an increased water-holding capacity of 1.90 mcm, an increase of around 70%. With eight waterbodies connected to the lake, the restoration helps retain a larger volume of water, reducing the risk of flooding in nearby areas. While usually lakes have steep slopes requiring stone pitching for bund strengthening, here, about 7.2 lakh cubic metres of silt removed during restoration has been used to strengthen the bunds. Landscaping work is also underway, using a combination of increased public green space, and paver blocks (2 km) to create a walking track. Bio-fencing has been done using tree branches. Two biodiversity islands are planned. The lake will act as both flood-mitigation and drought-mitigation system for the region, which is surrounded by extensive banana cultivation. During summer, farmers can use the stored water for irrigation, and enhanced storage will improve groundwater recharge, supporting agricultural activities and providing recreational space for local community, the official said. It further includes installation of sluice gates, creating seating areas, childrens play zone, outdoor turf, dedicated spaces for butterfly and dragonfly diversity, a pollinator garden, and learning spaces. The toilets are also built using recycled bricks made of fly ash. Kadapakkam lake Project cost: Rs 58.33 crore Started in August 2024 Expected completion by February 2026 Spread across: 134.89 acres Catchment area: 13.4 sqkm Current Storage Capacity: 1.2 million m Post-restoration Capacity: 1.9 million m Scope of work Removal of water hyacinth and terrestrial weed species Desilting & dredging of 7.2 lakh m of silt Strengthening and formation of bunds 3450 m Rehabilitation of inlets, outlets, sluice gates & surplus weirs Creation of bird island for an area of 5 acres & biodiversity habitats Formation of shallow ponds at inlet for reducing silt and improving water quality Dedicated space for Butterfly and dragonfly diversity 24 varieties of native tree species, including badam, poovarasu, vembu, and naval, are planted across an area of approximately 1 lakh sq.ft
29-year-old dies after lorry runs her over in Madhavaram
CHENNAI: A 29-year-old woman driving a two-wheeler died on Saturday evening allegedly after a tanker lorry rammed into her vehicle and ran her over. Onlookers caught the driver and thrashed him before handing him over to the police. According to the Red Hills Traffic Investigation Wing (TIW), the woman was identified as J Sivaranjani of Manali. She was working at an electronic appliance showroom in Madhavaram. The accident occurred after work on Saturday evening when she was returning home, they said. Police said that Sivaranjani had turned along the Manjambakkam junction near Madhavaram when she stopped before crossing. A lorry that was coming behind her allegedly rammed into her, killing her on the spot. The driver did not see the woman as several trees blocked his view, police said. Upon information, police sent the womans body to a government hospital for autopsy. A case has been registered and a probe is under way. The driver who was detained by police is under treatment for his injuries.
HPs pending share stalls progress on strategically important Bilaspur-Manali-Leh rail line
*Survey completed, Rs 1.31 lakh cr DPR ready Govind Sharma JAMMU, Dec 7: The lack of cooperation and unmet financial commitments from the Himachal Pradesh Government are significantly slowing down progress on the Bhanupli-Bilaspur-Beri stretch of the Bhanupli-Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway corridor-one of Indias most strategically important future rail networks. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Detailing the current status, financial position, land acquisition progress, and technical challenges shaping the project, highly placed sources in the Railway Ministry told Excelsior although [] The post HPs pending share stalls progress on strategically important Bilaspur-Manali-Leh rail line appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ennore, Manali face flooding as heavy rains lash North Chennai
CHENNAI: Several areas in Ennore, Tiruvottiyur and Manali were inundated as heavy rains lashed the northern parts of the city, with Manali New Town recording 24cm, Ennore 21cm and Wimco Nagar 20cm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8.30 am on Thursday. The rains were triggered by the lingering remnant of Cyclone Ditwah, which had weakened into a well-marked, low-pressure area and moved inland across the northern Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast on Wednesday, before weakening further on Thursday. These neighbourhoods had been bearing the brunt of the spell since Tuesday, consistently logging heavy rainfall. Kathivakkam in Tiruvottiyur recorded 16cm, parts of Manali New Town 13cm, Manali 12cm, Tiruvottiyur 11cm and Tondiarpet 7cm. According to the Greater Chennai Corporation, the city received an average of 4.17cm of rainfall from 8.30 am on Wednesday to 5 am on Thursday, with Tiruvottiyur and Manali zones receiving the highest amounts. Sadaiyankuppam Burma Nagar is among the worst-affected areas where residents were seen wading through knee-deep water for work and also buying essential items. I tried going out on Thursday to the market, it was impossible. The government should remove the encroachments and create proper infrastructure as we face such water stagnation every year, said a resident on condition of anonymity. Autos, bikes and bicycles navigating the inundated Thana Street in Purasaiwalkam, Chennai, on Thursday | ashwin prasath Residents also added that almost all the places in Manali, including Periya Sekkadu, Chinna Sekkadu, Andar Kuppam, Ariyalur and Kanniyammanpettai, also faced inundation, especially after the water from Poondi and Puzhal reservoirs were also opened. Many localities in Ennore is inundated and water has entered many houses. Water entered our compound which has not happened for the last six years due to heavy rain and failure to desilt water channels. We have also raised a complaint with the corporation, however, we have not received any help so far, said a resident of Sathiyavani Muthu Nagar third street. Several places in Tiruvallur also received severe rains with Gummidipoondi registering 15cm, Uthukottai 11cm, Ponneri 10cm, Cholavaram 9cm, Red Hills, Thamaraipakkam, Avadi and Puzhal registering 7cm each. The district administration had deployed motors to remove water from Minjur Main Road and several places in Cholavaram, among others. Meanwhile, Health Minister M Subramanian inspected four ponds that were created to store water as a monsoon preparedness measure. Works to remove stagnant water from places like MKB Nagar using water pumps were also carried out by the corporation.
Red alert issued as heavy rains lash Chennai and Tiruvallur
CHENNAI: The deep depression, the remnant of cyclonic storm Ditwah, weakened into a depression at around 5.30 am on Tuesday. By then, it had already brought very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall to parts of Chennai and Tiruvallur, with areas in North Chennai recording as much as 2026 cm of rain following near-continuous showers on Monday night. A red alert warning of extremely heavy rainfall was issued for Chennai and Tiruvallur for Tuesday. Weather bloggers noted that the city would continue to receive moderate to heavy spells of rain over the next 24 hours. With the city recording an average of 13.45 cm of rainfall within 24 hours between 5.30 am on Monday and Tuesday morning, several neighbourhoods experienced inundation even as the Greater Chennai Corporation deployed high-capacity pumps to clear water from the streets. Residents reported sustained waterlogging, with roads flooding again soon after water had been drained by authorities. Stalled Ditwah upends forecasts, drenches Chennai; schools & colleges to remain closed on Tuesday According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), the depression is likely to move slowly southwestwards towards the North Tamil NaduPuducherry coasts and maintain its intensity for the next 12 hours before weakening into a well-marked low-pressure area. Data from the GCCs Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) showed that several parts of the city received extremely heavy rainfall during this period, with at least five locations crossing the 20 cm mark. Parrys recorded the highest rainfall at 26.52 cm, followed by Ennore at 26.43 cm. Other areas that saw very heavy rainfall included Ice House (23.13 cm), Basin Bridge (20.76 cm), and New Manali Town (20.66 cm). Water stagnation persisted in Pulianthope, RK Mutt Road, Pattalam, Vyasarpadi, and Manali. In Mullai Nagar, Vyasarpadi, residents said that despite severe water stagnation every year due to the localitys proximity to the Captain Cotton Canal, construction of a new stormwater drain had only just begun. Fearing inundation, residents of Velachery, Royapuram, and Kodambakkam began parking their vehicles on flyovers as a precautionary measure.
Tribal youth make it big, conquer peak in Himachal Pir Panjal range
RAIPUR: A group of tribal youths hailing from Jashpurmost of whom had never seen snow or experienced high-altitude terrainreturned with a historic achievement that filled all of Chhattisgarh with pride. At 5340 metres, they have become the first team to summit the Jagatsuk-1 Peak in Himachal Pradeshs Pir Panjal range, completing the ascent in just 12 hours. The range is a part of the lesser Himalayan region. For five of these young men, the journey was unimaginable only months ago. With no previous exposure, they relied on rigorous training at the advanced Desdekha Climbing Area, a tourist spot, in Jashpur, about 350 km from Raipur. Under the mentorship of mountaineering coaches Dave Gates and Sagar Dubey, they trained to take over the Himalayas. The team not only pioneered a completely new route to the summit, naming it the Vishnu Deo Route, but also completed it in an alpine style, without any pre-established path. Their expedition also led to the discovery of seven new climbing routes in the Duhangan Valley near Manali. A standout accomplishment was the first ascent of an unclimbed 5,350-metre peak, which they named the Chhupa Rustam Peak. Its climbing route, called Curcuma, draws from the scientific name of turmerica symbol of strength and resilience in Indian culture. CM Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the team, saying, The history created by the youth of Jashpur at the heights of the Himalayas is a matter of pride for all of Chhattisgarh. It is a testament to our youthful strength, courage, and self-confidence. I am confident that every youth of Chhattisgarh will continue to reach new heights.
JK Bank signs MoU with MDB Group for The Lutyens Project
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 26: Jammu and Kashmir Bank today entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MDB Group for The Lutyens, an ultra-luxury high-rise residential development strategically located on the Delhi-Manali Highway in Mohali. During the press interaction here, representatives from MDB Group shared insights about the companys strong real estate legacy across Punjab and North India, spanning multiple successful residential and commercial projects over more than 15 years. We are honored to collaborate with J&K Bank in [] The post JK Bank signs MoU with MDB Group for The Lutyens Project appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K Bank signs MoU with MDB Group for luxury housing project
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 21: J&K Bank has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MDB Group to offer home loan facilities for The Lutyens, an upcoming ultra-luxury high-rise apartment project along the Delhi-Manali Highway in Mohali. A statement said the agreement was signed at the Banks Divisional Office in Jammu by Zonal Head Kathua, Suresh Choudhary and MDB Group representative, CA Nikhil Garg, in the presence of General Manager and Divisional Head Jammu, Ashok Gupta. Speaking on the occasion, [] The post J&K Bank signs MoU with MDB Group for luxury housing project appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Red Fort Blast: Himachal Hotelier Changes Plan Last Minute, Escapes Death
Ajay Singh from Manali narrowly escaped the deadly Red Fort Metro Station blast by choosing the metro over a cab, minutes before the explosion killed nearly 10 and injured over 20.
T.P.P. Road-Burma Nagar Link Road in Manali to be repaired soon
The road connects Manali High Road to Sadayankuppam, MMDA Colony, and Irular Colony
BRO constructing 298-km road from Manali to Leh
Work on Zanskar tunnel taken up NEW DELHI, Nov 5: The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is building a 298-km roadthe Nimu-Padam-Darcha road as the third alternative from Manali to Leh and the shortest avenue to reach Leh and has started work on a tunnel on the Zanskar range that will provide a clean route to Limu through the Zanskar valley, according to BRO DG Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp There is only one major [] The post BRO constructing 298-km road from Manali to Leh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Australian paraglider who crashed near Seven Sisters Peak in Manali rescued after 20 hours
CHANDIGARH: A 51-year-old Australian paraglider, Andy, who crashed yesterday evening near the Seven Sisters Peak located at an altitude of 13,500 feet in the Manali subdivision of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh, has been rescued after 20 hours. Sources said that the paraglider Andy, hailing from Australia, is believed to have crashed due to air pressure and adverse weather conditions. A paraglider pilot flying with him witnessed the accident and informed the rescue team, requesting assistance. Ramesh Kumar Jogi, in charge of the rescue team of the Manali Adventure Tour Association, said that Andy, who was lying on a dangerous and narrow ledge on a high mountain, was finally rescued with the help of a chopper. He is now being treated at the hospital and is out of danger. Both the pilots had come from Bir Billing in Kangra district to Manali and were flying back to Bir Billing when the crash took place. A rescue team was dispatched immediately on Monday evening to rescue Andy, who was trapped in the inaccessible hills. Andy's close call isn't rare, as paragliding accidents at popular sites like Bir Billing in Himachal have been taking place, with recent incidents involving flyers from Canada, Austria, and Russia, too. A few days ago, Megan Elizabeth, a 27-year-old Canadian paraglider who had gone missing, was found dead, while a 47-year-old Austrian paraglider, Jacob, was rescued from the high mountains of the Dhauladhar range. In the last five years, 26 paragliding crashes have been reported in Kangra and Mandi districts of the hill state, resulting in the death of 12 paragliders, including foreign nationals, and injury to many. In some incidents, neither the pilot nor the glider could be located.
Himachal Pradesh's Manali, Lahaul and Spiti receive fresh snowfall
Fresh snowfall has hit Himachal Pradesh's higher regions. Temperatures have dropped in Lahaul and Spiti district and Manali. This winter weather has brought joy to tourism businesses. They anticipate more visitors arriving soon. Light rains were also recorded in several parts of the state. Key locations like Manali and Bharmaur saw significant rainfall.
Restoration efforts in Manali-Ennore region have not achieved objectives
Government departments and agencies responsible for restoration works have largely failed to meet their commitments and there is a lack of coordination among the departments, says report brought out by Save Ennore Creek Campaign
Dry Weather to Continue in Himachal Till October 18; Keylong Records -2.2C
Shimla, October 12 (DailyKiran) Himachal Pradesh experienced a bright and sunny Sunday, with pleasant weather prevailing across popular hill stations such as Shimla, Kufri, Manali, and Dharamshala. However, the tribal regions of the state are witnessing extreme cold, as temperatures have dipped below freezing point in several areas. According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, ... Read more Dry Weather to Continue in Himachal Till October 18; Keylong Records -2.2C
TNPCB report flags dangerously high levels of toxic metals in Manali waste incinerator ash
Cadmium levels ranged between 291.6 and 364.5 mg/kg, compared to the safe limit of 1.0 mg/kg, while lead levels were also extremely high
Early Snowfall turns Kedarnath, Gulmarg and Manali into winter wonderlands, SEE PICS
Kedarnath, Gulmarg, and Manali witnessed their first snowfall of the season, turning the Himalayas into stunning winter wonderlands.
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Travel Vlogger Attempts 400 Km Manali-Ladakh Trip On Onewheel, Sparks Online Buzz
He's attempting to ride a one-wheeler from Manali to Ladakh, covering over 400 km of rugged terrain.
Kangana Ranaut, BJP MP, encountered angry protests in Manali's Patlikuhal due to her delayed response to rain-affected areas, with locals raising slogans and black flags. Ranaut, addressing residents, highlighted her own financial losses and connection to the region, urging them not to target her personally.
Himachal Pradesh: Kangana Ranaut faces protests during visit to flood-hit Manali
CHANDIGARH: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament and Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut faced protests during her visit to Manali following the recent landslides triggered by cloudbursts and heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh. As Kangana, the MP from Mandi, visited the Patlikuhal area, angry locals chanted slogans such as Kangana Go Back and You Are Late , expressing frustration over her delayed visit to assess the destruction caused by the natural disaster. Some reportedly asked her to leave the area. Tensions escalated as heated arguments broke out between the locals and BJP leaders accompanying Kangana. Police had to intervene to restore order. Viral videos from the scene show residents holding black flags and shouting slogans near the carcade of the actor-politician in Patlikuhal, clearly voicing their displeasure. In one such video, Kangana is seen responding emotionally to the backlash: My restaurant is also here, and it made a sale of only Rs 50 yesterday. We pay Rs 15 lakh in salaries alone, and we could only do Rs 50 worth of business. Imagine what I must be going through. Please understand my pain. I am a Himachali. I am a single woman. Dont attack me as if Im doing nothing. Dont treat me like Im the Queen of England, she said. Kangana also appeared to shift focus toward the Congress-led state government, saying: We are here to assess what work has been done and what the state government has actually done. During an interaction with a woman who attempted to question her about the flood situation, Kangana responded sharply: Have you come to attack me or question me? If you come to harass us, how will we be able to work? Earlier in the day, Kangana visited disaster-affected areas of Solang and Palchan in the Manali subdivision. She interacted with affected residents and took stock of the situation. BJP leader and former MLA from Manali, Govind Singh Thakur, briefed her on the infrastructure damage and other losses. He informed that families from 15 to 16 damaged houses had been shifted to safer locations. The Right Bank Road of Manali, which connects Kullu city, the bus stand, and Bindu Dhank, has suffered extensive damage. In Kullus Ramshele area, a house was destroyed. Floodwaters entered homes in the 14 Mile area near Manali, and a fish farm was damaged in Patlikuhal, as rivers and drains overflowed. Locals informed Kangana that the entire Solang village is at risk of sliding, as the Beas River continues to erode the mountain it sits on. They stressed that the only solution is to divert the rivers course by channelizing the water.
Heavy rains triggered landslides and flash floods at several places in Kullu and Manali on August 25 and August 26.
Kangana Ranaut Meets Flood Victims, Then Tells Them Her Cafe Made Only Rs 50
Actor-turned-politician and BJP MP from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, on Thursday expressed her distress over financial losses at her restaurant in Manali when she met residents affected by floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh.
Manali Highway Update: When Will The Route To Lahaul-Spiti, Leh Be Fully Open?
The Kitarpur to Kullu road is now open for traffic, and work is in progress to fully restore the Manali route, with authorities speeding up efforts to ensure smooth connectivity
Himachal Pradesh faces severe challenges due to the ongoing monsoon. Many roads are blocked and power and water supplies are disrupted. The death toll has risen significantly since June. Authorities are working to restore essential services. Union Minister Savitri Thakur assessed the damage in Kullu-Manali. Efforts are underway to repair roads and provide relief to affected people.
Himachal apple farmers in dire straits as monsoon wreaks havoc
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh's Rs 5000 crore apple industry have been badly affected after the monsoon wreaked havoc in the state. The quality of the fruit has significantly dropped due to a fungal disease, which is causing the leaves and apples to fall prematurely. Hence, there are more culled apples. The apple growers couldn't transport their crops as the road connectivity was badly affected due to landslides trigerred by flash-floods, heavy rains and cloudbursts. It is estimated that there will be a huge loss to the apple growers. The road connectivity in the apple belts of the state has been affected. The apple growers in Kullu, Kinnaur, Shimla, Mandi, Chamba, and upper Shimla are facing an uphill task in sending apples as hundreds of damaged roads are still to be repaired. In many areas, farmers are hiring workers to manually carry apple boxes across a damaged stretch of the roads and highway, thus raising the cost of transportation. In Kinnaur, the frequent closure of National Highway 5 at Nigulsari has created problems for the farmers of the district. There are scores of villages in Parvati and Banjar valleys where farmers had started harvesting but had to stop midway last month after the road connectivity was lost. On the other hand, the market rates have dropped to their lowest as the traders are reluctant to buy from local markets in Kullu and Mandi because the Kiratpur-Manali highway remained mostly blocked in August, resulting in a drop in the market rates. Over 1.57 crore apple boxes have been marketed within and outside the state until now. The number of marketed boxes would have been higher if the roads were not blocked or washed in various parts of the apple belt. Last year's data, till September 11, shows that 1.13 crore boxes reached the market. This year's high production, which is 45 lakh more boxes than last year, could be attributed to high production in the lower apple belts of the state, which has been nearly three times higher this year as compared to last year. Cloudburst in Himachals Bilaspur; several vehicles buried in debris, farms damaged As till August 20 this year, over 88 lakh boxes had been marketed. In the corresponding period last year, only around 32.6 lakh boxes had been marketed. The harvesting in the lower belts normally ends by August 15. Talking to TNIE , Sanyukt Kisan Manch (SKM) Himachal Pradesh, convener Harish Chauhan said that the apple season is at its peak, but as the roads had been blocked due to landslides, the apples could not be transported from the orchards to the market and in many instances, the apple crop got rotten lying in the orchards or in the trucks. Now, slowly, the road connectivity is opening up. The apple growers have suffered major losses this season, much worse than the 2023 natural disaster. The farmers could not send their crop to the market for days as roads were blocked, due to heavy rainfall, and a fungal disease attack had caused apples and leaves to fall prematurely. The final data will come later once the situation is completely assessed. But it is estimated that around 40 per cent of the apples fell in all the orchards across the state and about 60 to 70 per cent leaves fell, he claims. Chauhan says that due to the fungal disease and the premature drop, the `A grade apples, which cost between Rs 1,500 to Rs 2000 a box in the market, now cost Rs 700 to Rs 800. The apples are now marked in 'B' or 'C' category as stains have appeared on them due to premature fall, small size and faded colour. Due to all these factors it is estimated that the apple growers might suffer a loss of Rs 800 to Rs 1000 crore, but final figures can be confirmed after the complete report, he claimed. Sources said that around 43,930 MT of apples have been bought under the Market Intervention Scheme until now through 227 collection centres opened in various parts of the apple growing area. The apples bought through MIS until now are significantly higher compared to the corresponding period last year, when just a little over 15,000 MT apple were procured. The heavy hail and premature leaf fall are the major reasons behind such a spike in the procurement of culled apples this year. Last year, around 2.11 crore boxes of apples this year it was expected to be more than 3 lakh boxes but now it is estimated that around 2.50 to 3 crore boxes. Meanwhile, under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) around 43,000 metric tonnes of apples (`C and `D grade) have been bought and the figure might touch 50,000 MT. These apples are brought by the state government at Rs 12 per Kg and then pulp and juice is taken out and are also auctioned, Chauhan said. Another leading apple grower, Rakesh Singha, said, The apple season this year is the historically worst as in early April hailstorms came, and at that time the apple crops blossomed thus it was affected then in May heavy rains started. Also, two fungal diseases: Alternaria and Marssonina attacked the crop, thus the leaves of the fruit did not develop. This year's record apple crop has gone into the MIS. On the other hand, the production cost has been very high due to the fact that growers use sprays to save the crop and high transportation charges. While Hemis Negi, Managing Director of Himachal Pradesh State Agriculture Marketing Board (HPAAMB) said that so far at least 1.61 crore boxes have reached the market of these 1.02 crore in Shimla and Kinnaur markets and 23.45 lakh cantons in Solan.
The government also launches a special purpose vehicle to restore the environmentally sensitive Manali-Ennore region. It will focus on green projects, waterbody restoration, solid waste management, pollution control, and community infrastructure development
Manali to get sponge park with recreational facilities by April 2026
The 8.06-crore park is being set up across 7,652 sq.m. in Mathur MMDA Colony and will be linked to the Kosasthalaiyar Basin via a storm-water drain, says GCC
Himachal CM urges BJP MPs to push Centre for forest land allocation, special relief package
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the BJP and its Members of Parliament to seek the Central Governments support for approving the allotment of one bigha of forest land per disaster-affected family, along with a special relief package. He pointed out that 68 per cent of the states land is categorised as forest land, and without the Centres approval, the state government cannot provide such land. CM Sukhu also said that the state government has prepared a project worth Rs 3,000 crore to obtain assistance from the World Bank for disaster management and rehabilitation. The Chief Minister conducted an aerial survey of disaster-affected areas in Kullu and Manali districts. During his visit to Kullu, CM Sukhu reviewed the damage caused by flash floods and cloudbursts in various regions and interacted with affected families, assuring them of all possible assistance from the state government. The state government is extending assistance to affected families from its own limited resources, as no support has so far been received from the Central Government. We have requested the Centre to provide one bigha of forest land to each affected family to help them resettle in safer locations, CM Sukhu said. He further urged BJP MPs to press the Central Government for approval of this request and for the sanction of a special relief package. BJP leaders are active only on social media, but they have done nothing on the ground for the disaster-hit people. On the other hand, Congress leaders are reaching out to the people and working to alleviate the hardships caused by the disaster, he remarked. CM Sukhu said that the state government has prepared a 3,000 crore project to secure World Bank assistance for disaster management and rehabilitation of affected families. One dead, 5 missing as landslides triggered by heavy rains wreak havoc in Himachal The Chief Minister added that this years monsoon had caused widespread devastation across the state, resulting in heavy loss of life and property. During the past four days, rainfall has caused further damage in various parts of the state. The government is extending every possible support to those affected and has directed district administrations to provide maximum assistance to affected families, he said. CM Sukhu informed that the administration had deployed Army Chinook and MI-17 helicopters to rescue devotees stranded during the Manimahesh Yatra in Chamba district. A total of 605 devotees were safely evacuated from Bharmour and transported free of cost to their destinations in HRTC buses on Thursday, he said. The government has also cancelled all examinations in the state due to adverse weather and road conditions. He said the government was also making efforts to transport the produce of farmers and orchardists from disaster-affected regions to the markets. At present, the top priority is to restore roads and ensure essential services such as electricity and water supply at the earliest. Families whose houses have been completely destroyed are being provided with financial assistance of 7.70 lakh by the state government. Compensation will also be given for the loss of livestock, CM Sukhu added. The Chief Minister departed for Kullu from Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla in an Air Force helicopter, carrying rations and essential supplies. He inspected damaged roads, bridges and private properties at Vashisth Chowk, Manali, Bahang and Old Manali. He also visited devastation sites at Akhara Bazaar in Kullu, where heavy landslides buried several houses, causing deaths. CM Sukhu instructed the administration to accelerate relief and rescue operations and directed BRO officials to restore the damaged road at the earliest. He also inspected the damaged Bhootnath and Bhuntar bridges during the visit.
NHAI to fly in heavy equipment to fix Kullu-Manali highway
Following heavy rain and floods, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to airlift nine pieces of heavy construction equipment to restore the damaged Kullu-Manali highway. Restoration work is underway at 12 completely damaged and five partially damaged locations on NH-21. The NHAI has requested assistance from the Himachal Pradesh government to expedite the process.
Himachal Rain Fury: 2,000 Vehicles Stranded In Mandi, Kullu; 1,337 Roads Closed
Relentless rains in Himachal Pradesh caused landslides, road closures, and evacuations. Kiratpur-Manali highway remains blocked, stranding thousands of tourists.
The NHAI launched urgent restoration work on the Kiratpur-Pandoh-Kullu-Manali section of National Highway 21 on August 29, following severe floods, cloudbursts, and flash floods that damaged key stretches, cutting off road connectivity to the tourist town of Manali.
Himachal Pradesh declared disaster-affected state by CM Sukhu
CHANDIGARH: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday announced that Himachal Pradesh has been declared a disaster-affected state, following rain-related damages exceeding Rs 3,056 crore across all the districts. He said a formal notification has been issued, citing the scale of destruction due to cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides, which have severely impacted roads, bridges, power lines, and water supply schemes. Blaming the climate change for the disaster, he added that the Disaster Management Act has been invoked in response to the situation, and the entire state has been declared a disaster-affected area starting today. Talking to the media, Sukhu said that he has requested all the MPs from the state to urge the central government for special package. He added that the BJP should not do politics on this. Today the state is witnessing the consequences of climate change. We will ascertain the losses after the monsoons end, he added. Himachal records highest rainfall for August in 15 years; overnight landslides kill three While speaking in the state assembly, Sukhu said that the state has been carrying out relief and rescue operations on a war footing. So far 16 pilgrims have died in the Manimahesh Yatra and bodies of four of them are still stuck in Kugti village in Bharmour as it is not possible to take them out as incessant rains are still continuing. The Chamba district administration has arranged 20 porters to carry the corpse out but the rain is still continuing, Sukhu said. He said, Out of the 15,000 pilgrims stranded in Manimahesh, 10,000 have been safely evacuated and sent home through Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses without any charges. The government has deployed 40 NDRF and 40 SDRF personnel, along with local mountaineering teams from Manali, to assist in rescue operations and Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi is continuously camping in Bharmour and has even trekked on foot to the worst-hit areas, setting new records of ground-level work, he said. He also advised people who are coming to the state not to venture near rivers and nallas.
Himachal records highest rainfall for August in 15 years; overnight landslides kill three
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh witnessed over 440 mm of rainfall in August, a staggering 72% above the normal of 256.8 mm, the highest recorded in the past fifteen years. The previous highest August rainfall was 322.5 mm in 2019, but this year saw an excess of 120 mm compared to that. Widespread heavy rain has caused landslides across the hill state, killing three people overnight, while the water level at Pong Dam has crossed its maximum capacity. A red alert has been issued in four districts, and an orange warning is in place for the rest of the state. The state has recorded excess rainfall ranging from 26% to 162% across different regions. Lahaul and Spiti saw 26% more rain, Kangra 29%, Chamba 104%, Solan 118%, Una 121%, Shimla 126%, and Kullu the highest at 162%. Last week alone, Himachal received 165.6 mm of rainfall against the normal 42.4 mm, a deviation of 291%. So far this monsoon, the state has recorded 826.8 mm of rainfall compared to the normal 613.8 mm, amounting to a 35% surplus. The seasonal normal for the entire monsoon period is 734.4 mm. 10 pilgrims dead, eight missing, 6,000 devotees evacuated amid Manimahesh Yatra disaster Landslides triggered by heavy rains led to three deaths in Shimla district. In one incident, 35-year-old Virender Kumar and his 10-year-old daughter were killed after their house was struck by a landslide in Mohal Jot village, Junga tehsil. His wife survived as she was outside at the time. Several cattle were also killed. In another incident, an elderly woman, Kalavati, was buried under debris after a landslide hit her house in Chol village, Kotkhai area. In Rohru subdivision, four families were evacuated after a landslide threatened three homes and buried two cowsheds, trapping livestock. The Manimahesh Yatra, which has claimed 16 lives this season, has been suspended due to the inclement weather. The traditional royal bath was cancelled, and rituals were instead conducted at 84 local temples. Road connectivity across the region has been severely disrupted. The KiratpurManali National Highway has been blocked at several locations between Mandi and Aut due to fresh landslides. Tourists, buses, and trucks are stranded on both sides. The MandiPathankot Highway is also closed near Lavandi Bridge between Mandi and Jogindernagar. The SansariKillarThirotTandi road in LahaulSpiti remains blocked due to rockfall at Nili Dhank. Three pilgrims die during Manimahesh Yatra; heavy rain forces closure of schools, roads in Himachal Authorities in Mandi and LahaulSpiti have issued advisories urging residents to avoid non-essential travel. Emergency services and police have been deployed to manage traffic and assist stranded commuters. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Una, Sirmaur, Bilaspur, and Solan, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next few hours. An orange alert has been issued for Shimla and surrounding areas. As of this morning, the water level at Pong Dam stood at 1,390.52 feet, slightly above its maximum capacity of 1,390 feet. The inflow was recorded at 79,790 cusecs, while the outflow was 1,09,920 cusecs. Of this, 17,079 cusecs passed through turbines and 92,841 cusecs through the spillway. Six machines remain operational at the powerhouse. 380 tourists evacuated from Sissu, Manimahesh Yatris stranded in Chamba as Himachal reels under heavy rains
Chennai weather: Intense rain, cloudburst reported in city's Manali area; Flight ops impacted
Chennai experienced intense overnight rainfall, with a cloudburst in the Manali neighborhood, as reported by the Regional Meteorological Centre. Several flights destined for Chennai were rerouted to Bengaluru due to the heavy downpour. The meteorological department forecasts light to moderate rain in isolated areas of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, with strong winds expected.
Cloudburst at Chennais Manali; flights diverted to Bengaluru
For a 24-hour period ending at 8.30 a.m. on August 31, Manali experienced 27 cm of rainfall while New Manali Town and Wimco Nagar saw 26 cm and 23 cm of rainfall respectively.
The mental cost of survival for women migrant workers in T.N.
The Hindu visited Burma Nagar, in Chennais Manali, where migrants from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and other States live in cramped rented rooms. Conversations with women workers there, with those in other districts over the phone, as well as with activists and mental health experts, painted a picture of distress hidden behind factory lines and inside home
10 pilgrims dead, eight missing, 5,000 devotees evacuated amid Manimahesh Yatra disaster
CHANDIGARH: Ten pilgrims have died, and eight are missing in the ongoing Manimahesh Yatra, which was suspended on Monday due to heavy rains, landslides, and flash floods. Around 5,000 devotees stranded in the Bharmour region have been safely evacuated to Nurpur and Pathankot from Kalsuin. Meanwhile, Dharamsala and McLeodganj are facing a water crisis as the water level at the Pong Dam remains above the danger mark. The Kiratpur-Manali National Highway has also been blocked again due to landslides. Sources report that seven rescue teams, comprising police personnel, home guards, volunteers, NCC cadets, local residents, and civil officers, have been deployed to aid in the rescue operations. The devotees, who had trekked approximately 14 km from the district headquarters to reach Kalsuin, were then transported by 39 buses and 25 taxis to Chamba and Nurpur. Authorities have arranged additional buses to evacuate the remaining pilgrims, with 40 more buses requested. To assist the evacuees, arrangements for food and shelter have been made in Chamba, with community kitchens (langars) set up in Kalsui, Dharwala, and Dakhog to provide meals to the stranded devotees. Despite the debris being cleared from the Kalsui-Rakh road, heavy vehicles cannot pass, making the road unsuitable for large-scale movement. Due to the heavy rains and subsequent flash floods, roads were washed away, and communication links were severed, leading to the deaths of ten devotees and leaving eight others missing en route to the Manimahesh Yatra. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu conducted an aerial survey of the disaster-hit areas in Bharmour, Manimahesh, and other regions of Chamba district, as well as Fatehpur and Mand in Kangra district, following the excess water release from the Pong Dam. However, the adverse weather conditions prevented his helicopter from landing in Bharmour. The Chief Minister held a meeting with district administration officials in Chamba and instructed them to expedite the relief and rescue operations in the affected areas. He also stressed the importance of ensuring adequate arrangements for food, water, shelter, and other essential amenities for those stranded. Sukhu visited Kalsuin to oversee the transportation arrangements and interacted with the devotees. He said, The buses have been arranged for the devotees at Kalsuin near Chamba from where they could board the same for going towards Nurpur and Pathankot. He also directed officials to quickly restore the Salooni-Khundimaral road to facilitate the smooth movement of pilgrims, particularly those coming from Jammu's Kishtwar and Doda districts. Sukhu added that the State Governments pre-emptive measures had helped reduce the loss of lives compared to the devastation in 2023. However, the scale of destruction this year was far greater, with widespread damage to roads, electricity, water supply, and communication services. This year, the entire state has been hit by the destruction attributed to incessant rains, landslides, and cloud bursts. The rehabilitation is a challenge, but with the support of the people, we will overcome it courageously. It is our responsibility to rehabilitate the families who have been rendered homeless, lost all means of livelihood, and we will offer a special relief package to support them, he said. The Chief Minister acknowledged that the situation was being closely monitored by key government officials. Speaker of Vidhan Sabha Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, and Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh are reviewing the situation on the ground, Sukhu said, highlighting the humanitarian approach being adopted by the government. He mentioned that, Revenue Minister Negi has proceeded for Bharmour on foot from Chamba. This demonstrates that the present government has adopted a humanitarian approach and was sensitively dealing with the crisis. Regarding road restoration, Sukhu mentioned that heavy machinery, including JCBs and poclains, has been deployed in the district. However, the weather has posed significant challenges to the relief and restoration works. The evacuation of those stranded in Bharmour is also dependent on favourable weather conditions, although helicopters have been deployed for this purpose. The Chief Minister also called for a study to determine the underlying reasons for the frequent occurrence of cloud bursts in the state, citing global warming and climate change as major contributors. We must dig deep to tackle this problem effectively and save valuable lives, he stressed. Before departing for Bharmour, Sukhu inquired about the relief and rehabilitation operations in Kangra district from the Deputy Commissioner, Hemraj Bairwa, following excess water release from Pong Dam. Meanwhile, the water level in the Pong Dam remains above the danger mark at 1,391.28 feet, slightly above the permissible limit of 1,390 feet. The inflow was recorded at 160,276 cusecs, and the outflow was 84,952 cusecs, of which 17,079 cusecs were released through turbines, and 67,873 cusecs through spillways. At the MHC, the discharge stood at 11,500 cusecs, and 73,452 cusecs were released downstream at the Shah Nehar Barrage, with six machines operational at the dam. The water shortage in Dharamsala and McLeodganj is also a growing concern, as several water supply schemes were disrupted due to heavy rainfall, which caused landslides and damaged pipelines. The main supply line from the Naddi water treatment plant to Dharamsala was damaged due to land subsidence, affecting several distribution networks. The Gajj Khadd scheme, one of the major sources of water for the city, has been non-functional for over a month, and both the Naddi-Bhatehad and Bhagsunag schemes were also disrupted, further affecting the water supply to large parts of the city. Once again, the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway has been blocked between Mandi and Kullu due to a massive landslide, just a day after it was reopened following a four-day closure. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has deployed its workforce and heavy machinery to clear the blockage, but the disruption has left vehicles and tourists stranded. A flash flood triggered by heavy rainfall was reported at Katwadhi village under the Nandi Panchayat of Gohar subdivision in Mandi district. The sudden surge of water in the Naseni Nallah caused significant damage to local infrastructure, although fortunately, no loss of human life has been reported. As of this morning, 557 roads, including three national highways, remain closed for traffic. Of these, 213 are in Mandi district, 160 in Kullu, 28 in Shimla, 38 in Sirmaur, 60 in Kangra, 23 in Una, 14 in Lahaul and Spiti, 11 in Solan, and 9 in Bilaspur district. According to the State Emergency Operations Centre, 936 power supply transformers and 223 water supply schemes have also been disrupted across the state. In Shimla, two individuals, Hemant and Pyare Lal, were injured after their houses were damaged by landslides in Thala village in Rampur Subdivision. Both were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
Himachal Pradesh: Landslide hits Chandigarh-Manali highway Watch video
NHAI allocates 100 crore to repair Kullu-Manali road damaged in flash floods
Manali remains cut off after rain, floods and landslides battered NH 21; NHAI is exploring long-term solutions like construction of tunnels and elevated structures
NHAI begins emergency repairs on KiratpurPandohKulluManali highway after flood damage
NEW DELHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated urgent restoration efforts on the KiratpurPandohKulluManali corridor in Himachal Pradesh after the highway sustained severe damage due to flash floods and cloudbursts in Mandi and Kullu districts. On Friday, NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav chaired a high-level meeting with senior officials and field officers from the Shimla Regional Office to assess the damage and begin immediate restoration and improvement works on National Highway 21. The central government has allocated 100 crore for short-term restoration activities. Restoration work will target 10 locations on the KulluManali section that were completely washed away and five other sites that were partially damaged by torrential rains, cutting off Manali from the rest of the state. Alternate routes managed by the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) have also been damaged and are currently open only to light vehicles. NHAI has decided to extend financial assistance to the state PWD for immediate repairs and maintenance of PWD roads currently being used for diverted highway traffic, said officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Inaccessible areas will be temporarily restored to re-establish connectivity, and sufficient funds have been sanctioned to the NHAIs Shimla office for urgent work. The highways maintenance contractor has been mobilised, and emergency repairs are being carried out on a war footing. In parallel, NHAI is preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for permanent restoration of flood-damaged stretches on the KiratpurPandohManali section. Long-term solutions under consideration include the construction of tunnels, elevated road structures, and slope stabilisation measures. Officials confirmed that in addition to the 100 crore sanctioned for immediate rectification, steps are being taken to implement durable and resilient infrastructure across the affected sections.
Torrential rains across northern India triggered widespread devastation, with cloudbursts in Uttarakhand claiming lives and leaving many missing. Manali faced severe flooding, stranding tourists as roads were washed away. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remained closed due to landslides, while Punjab issued flood alerts and Maharashtra sought army assistance amid heavy downpours.
Four dead in land slides as flash floods in Ravi river wreak havoc in Himachal Pradesh
CHANDIGARH: Flash floods in the Ravi river have caused massive destruction in Himachal Pradesh, washing away schools, panchayat buildings, bridges, and other key infrastructure in Kangra and Chamba districts. Several villages have been cut off, while separate landslides have claimed four lives and left two others injured. In Bada Bhangal, a remote Kangra village located between the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, floodwaters have swept away the panchayat ghar, government primary and high school buildings, civil supplies store, Ayurvedic dispensary, and two bridges. Stocks of ration and medicines stored in these buildings were also lost. Sarpanch Mansa Ram Bhangalia said in a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of Kangra that the floods on August 26 have left the village facing imminent danger. Speaking to TNIE, he demanded an aerial survey under the Baijnath SDM and immediate relief measures. Kinnaur Kailash Yatra suspended, one pilgrim dead, 1196 rescued after cloudburst triggers flash flood in Himachal More than 300 residents are stranded in the village, while at least 150 shepherds and hundreds of goats, sheep and cattle are marooned on high pastures, he said. Any delay in providing relief could worsen the crisis as residents face acute shortages of food and medicines. He warned that many houses are at risk of collapsing due to severe erosion as the Ravi has washed away a five-kilometre stretch of land and even altered its course. Both trekking routes to the village, Thamsar Pass (4,654 m) and Kalihani Pass (4,800 m), have been rendered impassable, cutting off access. Bada Bhangal, inhabited mainly by the Gaddi community, remains one of the last strongholds of Himalayan pastoralism. The village is accessible only through a three-day foot trek, which typically closes after October snowfall, isolating it for nearly six months every year. Four died in landslides in Chamba Meanwhile, in Haloon village of Chamba district, a major portion was submerged after the Ravi swelled. At least nine houses were washed away, and several others are under threat. Luckily, all families were evacuated in time, preventing casualties. However, four people died in separate landslides in Chamba in the past 24 hours. In Basodhan panchayat, a brother and sister were buried under debris after stepping out to watch a landslide near their home. In Bhimla panchayat, four women working near their houses were hit by boulderstwo died on the spot, while two were critically injured. Authorities said more than 50 houses in Dalhousie are at risk, with electricity, water supply, and mobile connectivity cut off for two days. Another cloudburst hit Himachals Mandi; traffic disrupted on Chandigarh-Manali highway Elsewhere, Kullu, Manali, and Lahaul-Spiti remain cut off for the third consecutive day. Both the Kiratpur-Manali highway and the Manali-Leh highway have been severely damaged, leaving a large number of tourists stranded. Several portions of these highways have collapsed or been swept away. As of this morning, 534 roads, including one national highway, remain closed across the state. These include 216 in Mandi, 166 in Kullu, 65 in Kangra, 28 in Shimla, 20 in Una, 17 in Solan, 11 in Bilaspur, and 6 in Sirmaur. The State Emergency Operation Centre also reported disruptions to 1,184 power transformers and 503 water supply schemes.
Rain in J&K, Himachal Pradesh LIVE: IMD issues red alert for three districts in Himachal Pradesh
Chandigarh-Manali Highway closed due to landslipe in Himachal Pradeshs Banala; J&K death toll rises to 41
Himachal Rain: Beas River Overflows, Manali Toll Plaza Submerged | Watch
Heavy rain in Himachal caused flash floods, landslides, and damage in Manali, Kangra, and Chamba. Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu blamed climate change and suspended the Manimahesh Yatra.
Himachal Rain: Thousands Stranded As Chandigarh-Manali Highway Remains Shut For Third Day
The highway has been blocked between Pandoh and Aut due to recurring landslides at several stretches, said officials
At least 30 people lost their lives after incessant rains triggered a landslide near the popular shrine in Jammu and Kashmirs Katra
CHANDIGARH: Due to heavy rains triggering landslides and floods, Kullu, Manali and Lahaul-Spiti have been completely cut off from the rest of Himachal Pradesh for the second consecutive day. The KiratpurManali national highway and the ManaliLeh national highway have been badly damaged at multiple places. A total of 687 roads and three national highways across the state are either blocked or washed away by swollen rivers, nullahs and landslides. The KiratpurManali national highway has been washed away in several stretches between Mandi and Manali due to torrential rains and flash floods, with large portions of the road completely destroyed in places. The ManaliLeh highway, a vital link to Lahaul-Spiti, Leh and Ladakh, has also been severely damaged beyond Manali towards Keylong. As a result, thousands of travellers are stranded in Lahaul, Kullu-Manali and Mandi, with an estimated 2,000 vehicles stuck at various locations. Meanwhile, a suspension bridge on Gajj Khud at Kalasai in the Shahpur area of Kangra district has been washed away. The bridge, built in the 1990s, collapsed within minutes under the force of gushing waters, cutting off connectivity for several villages including Bhitlu, Daihda, Kotla, Maniyana and Kut. Authorities have cautioned that full restoration of highway connectivity, especially in stretches where roads have been entirely washed away, may take a few more days. As of this morning, 687 roads, including three national highways, remain closed for traffic. Of these, 319 are in Mandi district, 131 in Kullu, 56 in Shimla, 54 in Sirmaur, 34 in Kangra, 30 in Una, 27 in Solan, 19 in Bilaspur and 17 in Hamirpur, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre. In addition, 2,349 power transformers and 234 water supply schemes have been disrupted across the state. The IMD has issued a red alert for Chamba, Kangra and Mandi districts due to continuing heavy rainfall.
Video: Popular Manali Restaurant Swept Away In Flood, Only 1 Wall Remains
Sher-e-Punjab, a well-known restaurant in Himachal Pradesh's Manali, has been completely destroyed after severe flooding hit the area, leaving only its front wall standing.
Continuous rainfall in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district has swollen rivers, damaged roads and disrupted connectivity along the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway (NH-3). A portion of the highway was washed away by the Beas River. Manali was the worst-hit subdivision.
Himachal Pradesh flash floods: Raging Beas waters wash away portion of Manali-Leh highway- videos
Himachal Pradesh is grappling with severe flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, leading to road closures, school shutdowns, and disrupted utilities. The Manali-Leh highway is blocked, and a truck was swept away by floodwaters. Tragically, numerous fatalities and significant financial losses have already occurred due to the relentless downpour, with more heavy rain forecasted.
Popular Manali Restaurant Swept Away In Floods, Only Entrance Wall Left Standing | Watch
Manali's Sher-e-Punjab restaurant, a popular landmark for tourists, was swept away by floodwaters as heavy rains wreaked havoc. The eatery is located close to the Beas River.
CHANDIGARH: Heavy rains have triggered landslides and swollen rivers and streams, disrupting road connectivity in several parts of Himachal Pradesh. The downpour has caused extensive damage to the KiratpurManali National Highway at multiple locations, forcing its closure to traffic. Several other roads and a restaurant were swept away in Manali while locals were evacuated in Mandi. Almost all districts in the hill state, except Lahaul and Spiti, have been receiving rainfall since Sunday night, with no respite expected until September 1. District administrations have ordered the closure of all educational institutions in Chamba, Kangra, Una, and Lahaul and Spiti. As per official directives, all government and private schools and colleges including DIET, Anganwadi centres, degree colleges, ITIs, polytechnics, and engineering and pharmacy colleges will also remain shut in Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and the Kullu sub-divisions of Banjar, Kullu, and Manali. Sources said the KiratpurManali National Highway has been blocked at multiple critical points after landslides occurred at Dwada and Jhalogi in Mandi district. Near Bindu Dhank, close to Manali, a large section of the highway was washed away by the flooded Beas River, severely affecting road connectivity and completely disrupting traffic between Mandi and Manali. Efforts are underway to assess and repair the damaged stretches of the highway. Authorities have advised road users to avoid non-essential travel and refrain from attempting to cross blocked or waterlogged areas. Restoration work will begin once conditions stabilise and debris from landslides is cleared. As a precaution, the Manali district administration evacuated residents from the Bahang and Alu Ground areas late last night. In a timely rescue, one person trapped in a building in the Alu Ground locality was safely evacuated after sudden flooding. Officials have urged locals and tourists to stay away from riverbanks for the next 24 hours, warning that the situation remains volatile. The water level in the Beas and its tributaries continues to rise due to ongoing heavy rainfall. Public safety is our top priority, a government spokesperson said. The river is flowing above the danger mark in both Mandi and Kullu, raising concerns for residents in low-lying areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for very heavy rainfall, lightning, and thunderstorms in Chamba, Mandi, and Kangra districts. A yellow alert is in place for the next two days, followed by an orange alert for heavy rainfall until September 1. The severe weather poses risks of flash floods and landslides, prompting authorities to urge residents to remain vigilant. Since last nights downpour, the Beas River and its tributaries have swollen dangerously, triggering emergency evacuations and rescue operations. Emergency services, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), are on standby. The state has been reeling under incessant rainfall over the last few weeks, which has caused widespread damage to life and property. As of Monday morning, 687 roads, including three national highways, remained closed to traffic. Of these, 319 were shut in Mandi district, 131 in Kullu, 56 in Shimla, 54 in Sirmaur, and 27 in Solan, according to data from the State Emergency Operation Centre. In addition, 2,349 power supply transformers and 234 water supply schemes have been disrupted across the state.
