4 Killed, 1 injured As Alto Car Falls Into Gorge In Manali: Police
Four people, including two tourists from Punjab, were killed on the spot, while one person sustained critical injuries when their vehicle skidded off a road and fell into a gorge near the Rani nallah.
I must admit that I am overwhelmed. Every day, I get some dreadful news of a large-scale disaster or a misfortune. The world is ready to implode with headstrong leaders taking unflinching stances on geo-political issues. Global war seems imminent, and the planet Mars seems to be doing a merry dance on us, The Les Misrables of the world! At least thats what the doomsday pundits are saying! Some friends just returned from Europe and were horrified at the state of affairs in the usual hot spots like Paris, London and most of Spain. Apparently, Paris looks like it needs a good wash, while London is overrun with snatch and run thieves and the homeless hordes, while in Spain, my friends and other tourists were pelted with stones and rocks as the locals dont want more tourists because of rising prices! The United States is out because of their Gestapo-esque border police who may send us brown people off to some detention camp to pick their rotting fruit. So the only place to holiday out of the country is to turn ones gaze eastward. Places like Korea, Japan, and the Philippines are more attractive options as the locals are polite and smart. Better still, Manali and Himachal Pradeshhere we come! Nisha Rebello (left) and Priya Mascarenhas Bengaluru is bursting at its seams. Maybe its time we, the locals, start throwing some stones too! New restaurants, pubs, eateries and amusement centres close faster than they open. Frankly, we are spoilt for choice, and given the fact that our techie population is cash-rich, they demand nothing but the best. And why not, I ask? Now, restaurateurs are thinking of newer concepts to draw in crowds. Any flea market (most un-flea with the beautiful artefacts and clothes on display) always has an array of popped-up food counters featuring a myriad of restaurants, where the discerning buyers can buy as well as eat and make it a days outing. I love going to the JW Marriotts markets run by the enterprising duo of jewellery designer Nidhi Kataria and designer Raj Shroff. Sometimes we make it for a quick lunch and shopping, or coffee and high tea. Sometimes there is a crooner and one always bumps into other like-minded bffs (buying-friends-forever)! We did a fam-jam at Part-Two, a no-concept concept by the young owners of Biere Club, who hosted the urban legend, Nooresha Kabli, a chef who specialises in Japanese food at her restaurant, Izumi, in Mumbai. The vibe was young and noisy unlike a serene Japanese experience, but hey! Thats the new Bengaluru for you! But luckily, some things remain the same in namma ooru, and that is the grace and elegance with which our long-time residents conduct themselves. Priya and Mohan Mascarenhas was a couple that epitomised the quiet and understated luxury of owning an award-winning home, travelling the world, and being the most sought-after couple in the social circuit. Mohan passed away as elegantly as he lived his life last year. His bereft soulmate Priya decided to celebrate his life by throwing a high tea for only her close and intimate circle (which included the delite of Bangalore). A short and poignant service full of good memories and bonhomie was followed by a high tea that our good queen would be impressed by! The ego wants quantity, while the soul craves quality. (The writers views are personal)
One dead, 18 missing as flashfloods wreak havoc in Himachals Mandi; 41 rescued so far
CHANDIGARH: One person died and 18 went missing in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi district due to flashfloods triggered by multiple cloudbursts in the Karsog subdivision early Tuesday. At least 41 people were rescued from various locations. The Kiratpur-Manali highway has been blocked at multiple places between Mandi and Kullu and the motorists were stranded inside road tunnels the whole night. Sources said cloudbursts occurred at at least four locations in Mandi district, triggering flashfloods that washed away several houses, vehicles, and bridges. As the incident happened early in the morning, many people rushed to safety. Meanwhile 16 people including 12 children and 4 women were rescued. A seven member family from Riki village was also rescued and relocated to a safer area. Meanwhile 18 persons are reported missing as two homes were swept away at Jayuni Khad by the tributary of the Beas River in Sianj Panchayat. Many houses and cowsheds were damaged or washed away in Syathi village in Dharampur subdivision but no casualties have been reported from the area so far. Around a dozen vehicles parked at Jail Road in Mandi were buried following a landslide. The Pandoh market was evacuated around midnight as a precaution after water levels in the Beas River rose dangerously due to the controlled release from the Pandoh Dam. No casualties or cases of people being trapped were reported. Fourteen people were evacuated from Raghunath ka Padhar and another eleven were rescued from Purani Mandi after a sudden surge in the Beas River as the dam gates were opened. On the other hand the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are on the spot and actively monitoring the evolving situation. A flash flood was also reported in the Bagi rivulet in Kandi-Kataula area of the district. Vehicular movement from Mandi towards Kullu has been suspended for safety reasons. Volunteers from the district administration distributed food and water to the stranded people. Continuous rainfall has severely hampered efforts to clear the highway, which began late Monday evening. Due to heavy rain in the upper catchment areas of Beas river it has led to a sharp increase in inflow at Pandoh Dam thus the spill gates were opened to manage the water levels which, caused the river to swell downstream. Warning sirens are being sounded continuously and public announcement vehicles have been deployed to inform the public to stay away from riverbanks. The Larji Hydro Electric Project (126 MW) in Kullu also increased its water discharge due to rising water levels and high silt content and similar warnings have been issued to the public and tourists in the area. Meanwhile, as a precautionary measure all educational institutes including schools will remain closed in Mandi and Kangra district on Tuesday as well.
One dead, nine missing as flashfloods wreak havoc in Himachals Mandi; 41 rescued so far
CHANDIGARH: One person died and nine went missing in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi district due to flashfloods triggered by multiple cloudbursts in the Karsog subdivision early Tuesday. At least 41 people were rescued from various locations. The Kiratpur-Manali highway has been blocked at multiple places between Mandi and Kullu and the motorists were stranded inside road tunnels the whole night. Sources said cloudbursts occurred at at least four locations in Mandi district, triggering flashfloods that washed away several houses, vehicles, and bridges. As the incident happened early in the morning, many people rushed to safety. Meanwhile 16 people including 12 children and 4 women were rescued. A seven member family from Riki village was also rescued and relocated to a safer area. Meanwhile nine persons are reported missing as two homes were swept away at Jayuni Khad by the tributary of the Beas River in Sianj Panchayat. Many houses and cowsheds were damaged or washed away in Syathi village in Dharampur subdivision but no casualties have been reported from the area so far. Around a dozen vehicles parked at Jail Road in Mandi were buried following a landslide. The Pandoh market was evacuated around midnight as a precaution after water levels in the Beas River rose dangerously due to the controlled release from the Pandoh Dam. No casualties or cases of people being trapped were reported. Fourteen people were evacuated from Raghunath ka Padhar and another eleven were rescued from Purani Mandi after a sudden surge in the Beas River as the dam gates were opened. On the other hand the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are on the spot and actively monitoring the evolving situation. A flash flood was also reported in the Bagi rivulet in Kandi-Kataula area of the district. Vehicular movement from Mandi towards Kullu has been suspended for safety reasons. Volunteers from the district administration distributed food and water to the stranded people. Continuous rainfall has severely hampered efforts to clear the highway, which began late Monday evening. Due to heavy rain in the upper catchment areas of Beas river it has led to a sharp increase in inflow at Pandoh Dam thus the spill gates were opened to manage the water levels which, caused the river to swell downstream. Warning sirens are being sounded continuously and public announcement vehicles have been deployed to inform the public to stay away from riverbanks. The Larji Hydro Electric Project (126 MW) in Kullu also increased its water discharge due to rising water levels and high silt content and similar warnings have been issued to the public and tourists in the area. Meanwhile, as a precautionary measure all educational institutes including schools will remain closed in Mandi and Kangra district on Tuesday as well.
Chennai corporation to impose Rs five lakh fine for letting sewage into stormwater drain
CHENNAI: The corporation council adopted a resolution on Monday increasing the penalty for illegal sewage connections to stormwater drains or for discharging sewage waste onto the streets to a maximum of Rs 5 lakh, depending on the type of the building. The maximum penalty was earlier Rs 2 lakh. Following a direction from the Madras High Court to implement penalties for illegal sewage connections into stormwater drains in 2017, the GCC had fixed penalties at Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 for ordinary buildings, Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000 for ordinary commercial buildings, and Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh for multi-storey buildings. The corporation has now proposed to increase this as Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 for ordinary buildings, Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh for ordinary commercial buildings, and Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh for multi-storey buildings. This is as per Section 161 of the Tamil Nadu Urban Local Bodies Act 1998, said the resolution, which prohibits any individual from discharging refuse, trade effluents or waste into water sources or drains maintained by the municipal corporations. As part of the civic bodys initiatives to eliminate manual desilting of stormwater drains, the council also adopted a resolution to hire a private contractor, M/s Sai Tube Well company, to clean the stormwater drains across the city using machines having a suction capacity of 4,000 m3/hour. The firm will also be responsible henceforth to transport the silt collected every 25 km to the dump yards using dumpers. In addition, three vehicle-mounted high-capacity suction-cum-jetting machines with a recylcing facility will be procured by the corporation at a cost of Rs 13.95 crore to be deployed in each of the three regions of the city corporation for cleaning silt catch pits in SWDs. During the question hour, Ward 97 Councillor Latha raised concerns over tenders being awarded to the same private contractor for work across the city, stating that it was resulting in delayed progress of work, especially desilting of stormwater drains. She urged the civic body to issue tenders to other contractors ward-wise to ensure that the work is completed on time and every qualified contractor from all classes received equal opportunity. Works in the pipeline GCC to rename Demonte Street near Marina as MS Viswanathan Salai New stormwater drains to come up across seven zones at a cost of Rs 68 crore Reconstruction of old drains across five zones to be taken up at Rs 32 crore Waddels Road near Kilpauk to be renamed as Father Bishop Ezra Sargunam Salai Contract for privatisation of solid waste management in Royapuram, Thiru-Vi-Ka Nagar zones awarded to M/s Delhi MSW Solutions Limited at a cost of Rs 276 crore Applications invited for nomination of two disabled persons to corporation council from July 1 to 17 Manali gets Rs 12-cr disaster relief centre Chennai: A disaster relief centre will be established at Manali at a cost of Rs 12 crore, funded from State Disaster Relief Fund. The centre will be built on 1.12 acres in Mathur village, located in a flood-safe area near a 200-foot road and a 100-bed hospital. Additionally, seven climate-resilient sponge parks worth Rs 88 crore will be developed across the Chennai Metropolitan area.
Rain throws normal life out of gear in Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh-Manali highway disrupted
Educational institutions in the Sub Divisions of Manali and Banjar in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, will remain closed today following a rain alert; 24-hour ban on Char Dham lifted, Uttarakhand officials said
Himachal weather update: Schools, colleges shut down in these districts after IMD red alert
Due to an IMD warning, schools in Manali and Banjar will be closed on June 30, 2025. Heavy rainfall is expected, making travel unsafe for students and staff. Similar closures are ordered in Banjar. Himachal Pradesh has already experienced rain damage with landslides and blocked roads. Authorities advise people to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel.
Only 12K street hawkers vote in vending panel membership poll in Chennai
CHENNAI: Only 36.8% of registered street vendors in the Chennai corporation limits cast their votes in the zonal town vending committee elections on Thursday. Out of the 33,389 registered street vendors in the city, 12,290 cast votes. The results will be announced on Friday. The elections were held for 90 members, six for each of the 15 zones. Of them, 42 were elected unopposed, which included all six members in Madhavaram, Alandur and Perungudi zones. According to the city corporation, Royapuram, Manali, Thiru Vi ka Nagar and Kodambakkam zones saw the highest voting percentage of registered vendors. The turnout in Royapuram was 3,492 (44.2%) and Kodambakkam 2,994 (52.49%). Manali saw a 49.4% turnout and Thiru Vi Ka Nagar 45.37%. This year, the turn out was better due to increased awareness, said Chennai Street Vendors Association president C Thiruvettai. Of the six members in each zone, one member has to be from the SC/ST community, one from other backward classes, one in the general category, one in the minority category, apart from one woman and one differently-abled member. Weve selected a candidate who is one of us (street vendors). Were confident that well now have a say in matters that concern us, said Kala P, a street vendor who voted at the Tondiarpet election booth. According to sources, interference from local councillors created brief disruptions during polling at a few places including in T Nagar. Earlier, there was a 15-member Town Vending Committee covering all the zones in Chennai. But now, well have a six-member committee for each zone, making it easier to address street vendors grievances, said Meeran Moideen, a street vendor and one of the candidates contesting in the Tondiarpet Zone.
Himachal flash floods: Search operation to find missing people intensified, others rescued
SHIMLA: Search operations have been intensified to trace 10 people missing since the flash floods triggered by cloudbursts in Himachal's Kangra and Kullu districts, officials said on Thursday. Two persons died while about 20 were feared swept away due to heavy rains on Wednesday evening but some of the missing people have since been rescued. In Manuni Khad in Kangra district, around 15-20 workers stationed at a labour colony near the Indira Priyadarshini Hydroelectric project site were feared swept away following a surge in water level in Manuni Khad of Khaniyara. Two people died due to the flash flood at the site. Three people at Rehla Bihal in Kullu district who were washed away in the deluge while trying to take away valuables from their homes are still missing. Two teams of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and a team of home guards have been deployed at the spot and the National Disaster response Force (NDRF) has also been called for rescue efforts, Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa after visiting the site. At the hydroelectric project site, six people are feared swept away by the floods while one person was seen fleeing to a nearby hill to save himself. His whereabouts are also not yet known, the DC said. The rest have been rescued safely, he said, adding that search and rescue is the first priority. Stranded tourist vehicles amid flash floods following cloudbursts at Manikaran valley, in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, Wednesday, June 25, 2025. A bereaved woman mourns after her family members were allegedly swept away near Bihari area amid flash floods due to cloudbursts, in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, Wednesday, June 25, 2025. Some of the missing people hail from Nurpur and Chamba areas of Himachal Pradesh and others from Uttar Pradesh. A dedicated team has been sent to find the man who went into the hills during the floods. Dharamshala BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma who reached the spot on Thursday said the project site was one kilometer from his village. He said he received a call on Wednesday that the water level has surged and 15-20 people had been swept away. Sharma said that building sheds for labourers near the drain, and not shifting them when the weather was unsafe areas was negligence and an investigation should be initiated. The MLA also demanded adequate compensation to the family of the deceased. According to officials, the project work had been suspended due to the rain, and the workers were resting in temporary shelters near the site when floodwaters from Manuni Khad and nearby drains diverted towards the labour colony, sweeping several of them them away. In Kullu district, a search is underway to find three people who were swept away while trying to take away their valuables from their homes in Rehla Bihal area of Sainj. Three cloudbursts incidents were reported from Jeeva Nallah and Rehla Bihal in Sainj and Shilagarh in Gadsa area of Kullu district. Flash floods were also reported from Manali and Banjar in the district, and search operations were underway.
FIR Filed Against Youtuber Puneet Superstar For Mocking Himachal People In Videos
The police stated that an influencer filmed several videos in Manali, which, when uploaded, hurt the sentiments of the local residents.
Flash floods were also reported from Manali and Banjar in the district, and search operations were underway, Kullu ADC Ashwani Kumar said
Three missing as cloudbursts trigger flash floods in Himachals Kullu District
CHANDIGARH: Three people were reportedly washed away after multiple cloudbursts triggered flash floods in Himachal Pradeshs Kullu district on Tuesday, causing widespread damage to houses, roads, school buildings, and small bridges. Cloudburst incidents were reported from Jeeva Nallah and Rehla Bihal in Sainj, as well as from Shilagarh in the Gadsa area, prompting local authorities to issue alerts for nearby regions. In Rehla Bihal, one man and two women attempting to retrieve valuables from their home were swept away in the sudden deluge and are currently missing. The heavy downpour led to a rapid swelling of rivers and streams, creating flood-like conditions across the district. The key Aut-Luhri-Sainj road was blocked, halting vehicular movement and cutting off access to several areas. Videos circulating on social media reveal the severity of the flooding, with footage showing vehicles being carried away by muddy waters and debris. Flash floods were also reported in Manali and Banjar areas within Kullu district, with search and rescue operations currently underway. Additionally, water from a flash flood in the Brahma Ganga drain in Manikaran Valley entered multiple homes, raising concerns of further damage. Himachal Pradesh Disaster Management Director D.C. Rana stated that the Parvati River was in spate. So far, there have been no confirmed reports of fatalities or major property loss, but people are being advised to relocate to safer areas as a precaution, he said. Banjar MLA Surinder Shourie confirmed receiving multiple reports of damage due to intense rainfall in the Sainj, Tirthan, and Gadsa regions. He urged the public to remain cautious and avoid rivers and drains, while also calling on local authorities to respond swiftly to the developing crisis. Meanwhile, in the neighbouring Lahaul and Spiti district, police reported the closure of the KazaSamdoh road due to landslides, debris, and overflowing drains. Water levels in both the Beas and Sutlej rivers have risen significantly. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh over the next 48 hours. Districts expected to be affected include Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Kullu, Hamirpur, Solan, and Una.
Greater Chennai Corporation to restore 41 ponds at Rs 119 crore
CHENNAI: The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is set to rejuvenate 41 ponds in the North Chennai zones of Thiruvottiyur, Manali, Madhavaram, and Tondiarpet at Rs 119.12 crore. The restoration works will include desilting, deepening, strengthening of bunds, and construction of retaining walls. The Manali zone will see the largest share of the work, with 28 ponds set for rejuvenation at Rs 58.43 crore. In Thiruvottiyur, four ponds will be restored at a cost of Rs 28.9 crore. Madhavaram zone also will see Rs 11-crore restoration of four ponds. In Tondiarpet, Rs 20.97 crore has been allocated for five projects. Moreover, five pond restoration projects worth Rs 25.25 crore are in progress using GCCs capital fund. Four new ponds have been created in Guindy, with a storage capacity of 2.28 lakh cubic metres to reduce flooding.
SHOCKING: 10-year-old falls off 30 feet after zipline breaks mid-air in Manali, video surfaces
A 10-year-old girl from Nagpur was critically injured after falling 30 feet in a ziplining accident in Manali due to poor safety measures.
Video: Girl plunges 30 feet after zipline snaps in Manali
Nagpur: A 12-year-old girl from Maharashtras Nagpur suffered severe injuries after she plunged 30 feet to the ground during a zipline ride in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Trisha Bijwe was vacationing with her family in Manali. She fell while riding a zipline after the rope connected to her harness snapped. It is not clear when the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Video: Nagpur Girl Falls Off Zipline As Harness Rope Snaps In Manali, Injured
A 12-year-old girl from Maharashtra's Nagpur suffered severe injuries after she fell during a zipline ride in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, a person close to her family said on Sunday.
Teenage girl sustains injuries after falling from zipline in Manali as cable snaps mid-air
A teenage girl from Nagpur suffered injuries after falling from a zipline in Manali. The zipline cable broke mid-ride, causing her to fall. She was hospitalized and later discharged. The family and zipline operators reached an understanding. Police confirmed her prompt medical attention and stable condition. Local authorities may review safety protocols for adventure activities.
12-Year-Old Girl Falls 30 Feet Into Gorge After Zipline Snaps Mid-Air In Manali | Video
A 12-year-old girl, Trisha Bijwe from Nagpur, was critically injured in Manali when a zipline rope snapped, causing her to fall 30 feet into a gorge.
Nagpur Girl Injured After Zipline Rope Snaps In Manali
12-Year-Old Suffers Multiple Fractures; Undergoes Surgery, Condition Stable
In the absence of designated crossings. passengers getting down at bus stops climb over the medianto cross the roa dand are exposed to the risk of accidents
Looking for a hidden hill station? heres Why Gulaba beats Manali & Shimla
Himachal farmers demand ban on Turkish apples
CHANDIGARH: Apple growers of Himachal Pradesh, who contribute around Rs 5,000 crore to the apple economy of the hill state, have demanded that India should stop importing Turkish apples. They also demanded that the import tariff on Washington apples should not be decreased further. The demand came following the discontent among Indians after Turkey expressed open support for Pakistan after 'Operation Sindoor'. Talking to TNIE , Sanyukt Kisan Manch (SKM), Himachal Pradesh, convener Harish Chauhan said that they will be meeting Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on May 20 to discuss the issue. They will be handing him a memorandum for Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding that the import of Turkish apples should be stopped by the Union government in India. They have also demanded that the import of apples from Iran should not be allowed, and the import tariff on Washington apples should not be decreased further. The Minimum Import Price (IMP) on apples, which were imported from various countries, should be Rs 100 per kilogram. Last year, the union government announced that it would levy Rs 50 per kg IMP on the import of apples from abroad, but that was not implemented. The apple season of Himachal Pradesh will start from mid-July, and it is expected that this year the apple crop will almost be the same as last year (2.18 crore boxes), said Harish Chauhan. He also said that the apple growers are badly impacted because of the import of apples from Turkey and Iran. Per kg of apple from Turkey costs between Rs 60 to Rs 65, and that from Iran costs anywhere between Rs 38 to Rs 40 per kg. While our (Himachal Pradesh) cost of production is approximately Rs 40 per kg and we sell our best apple in the running market anywhere approximately between Rs 50 to Rs 60 per kg, he said. Chauhan further said that 1.10 metric tons of apples were imported from Turkey in 2022, and then it went up to 1.29 metric tons in 2023, but in 2024, the imports from Turkey fell to 1.11 lakh metric tons. While 79,000 metric tons of apples were imported from Iran in 2022 and 1.16 lakh MT in 2023, the imports fell to 1.07 lakh MT in 2024, he said, quoting data from DGCIS. Meanwhile, a delegation of the Himalayan Apple Growers Society met Union Commerce and Industries Minister, Piyush Goyal. Citing losses to the apple farmers of the state due to cheap and subsidised imports, the delegation sought an immediate ban on the import of apples from Turkey. A member of the delegation, Chetan Singh Bragta, who is also a BJP leader, said that demanding a ban on the import of apples from Turkey is not just a trade decision but a matter of national pride and protection of apple growers, sending a strong message to countries supporting terrorism. The hoteliers of Manali have demanded the removal of Turkish firm Yksel Proje from the Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway survey, citing national security concerns and ecological threats to the fragile mountain region. Talking to the media, Ved Ram Thakur, Chief Adviser to the Hotel Association of Manali, said that the public anger was growing against Turkey, and thus, the involvement of the Turkish company with several village panchayats also voiced opposition to the ongoing survey. On the other hand, Lovely Professional University (LPU) a private university near Jalandhar in Punjab, has terminated all its Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions in Trkiye and Azerbaijan. The university has formally ended six academic collaborations, citing recent geopolitical developments that it considers to be against Indias national interest. The development follows similar decisions taken by other prominent Indian universities. Earlier this week, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) suspended its MoU with Inonu University, citing national security considerations.
Representatives in Manali voice strong opposition to the BilaspurManaliLeh railway survey conducted by Turkish company Yksel Proje, citing national security risks due to Turkey's pro-Pakistan stance. Concerns also include potential damage to local horticulture, livelihoods, and the region's natural beauty. They demand immediate cancellation of the Turkish firm's involvement and a security review.
Manali, You Have My Heart, Says Aamna Sharif As She Shares Pictures From Her Vacation
Aamna shared glimpses from her Manali trip on Instagram. She even wore the traditional attire of the region.
Leh-Manali National Highway Open After BRO Clears Snow
Shimla, May 12: The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on Monday opened the Leh-Manali national highway (NH-3), reconnecting Ladakh to the rest of India via Manali, according to an official statement. This 475 km artery, crucial for the movement of armed forces and essential supplies to forward areas in Ladakh, was restored to operational status after remaining closed since late November 2024, the BRO said in the statement. BROs dedicated snow clearance teams from Project Himank in Ladakh and Project Deepak [] The post Leh-Manali National Highway Open After BRO Clears Snow appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Waste dumping, burning near Irular Colony in Manali going on for years, residents charge
Ladakh is safe for travel, says Hill Council following unsafe rumours
Following concerns about security after the Pahalgam attack, Ladakh officials assure tourists that the region is safe for travel, urging them to disregard misinformation. LAHDC Leh is committed to promoting tourism and ensuring visitor well-being. Efforts are underway to expedite the reopening of the Leh-Manali road, addressing a key request from tour operators.
Tourists cancel Kashmir bookings, shift to Himachal after Pahalgam attack fallout
CHANDIGARH: Tourists now prefer vacationing in Himachal Pradesh over Jammu and Kashmir after the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 persons were killed. Approximately 15-20% of both domestic and international bookings have shifted from Kashmir to Himachal's popular destinations including Manali, Shimla and Dharamshala; however, the surge in footfall is not as expected as tourists have adopted a 'wait-and-watch' policy amid prevailing uncertainties and hostilities between India and Pakistan. Ashwani Bamba, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Kangra, told TNIE that, after the terror attack, tour operators and potential tourists inquired for booking in Himachal and Uttarakhand and that they expected the surge to be significant. But, actually only 15-20% of tourists shifted from J&K to Himachal and the rest probably prefer to not venture out during this summer season owing to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Thus, the occupancy of hotels across the state at present is around 40% only, the same as last year. Bookings that were shifted were that of tourist groups traveling from Maharashtra, Gujarat and other states, not the immediate bookings in Kashmir which had gotten cancelled, he said. Bamba added that, in Himachal, Manali had the maximum number of shifted bookings at about 20%, while Dharamsala, Dalhousir and Shimla had much fewer. He said that advance bookings had already been made for the IPL matches in Dharamsala. Kashmir tourism stumbles after Pahalgam terror attack, but industry leaders remain hopeful Mohinder Seth, president of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Stakeholders Association, said that tourists are adopting a wait and watch policy due to India-Pakistan tensions. On everyone's mind, there is only one question: What will the Union government do in the coming days? The common is just waiting for that. There were a lot of inquiries after the unfortunate incident as people got diverted from the Kashmir Valley, but the actual number of bookings are very less. In May, generally, there is about 30-40% occupancy across the state, after May 15 we are expecting that it may touch 60-70% as advance bookings are already been done, he said. This tragedy not only upended the tourism sector in Kashmir, but has also impacted the neighboring states of Himachal and Uttarakhand. Ex-President of Manali Hotel Association Mukesh Thakur said that after terror attack there was lot of expectation that the tourist rush will shift to Himachal and lot of queries had also come. But the number of booking which are less as, first, the tourists have to get their booking cancelled and take a refund and then again they will think where to go. Already as predicted that the summers will be hot this year so already there are lot of booking done in advance as far as Manali is concerned. At present around 30-40% occupancy in the hotels here and after May 15 as summer intensifies the occupancy is expected to touch more than 80% as already people have booked. Also is expected that in coming days more online bookings will be done. The tourism industry contributes 7.78 per cent to the GDP of the hill state. As per the Economic Survey report for Himachal Pradesh for 2024-25, the number of domestic visitors increased to 1.8 crore in 2024 from 56.32 lakh in 2021 while the surge in foreign tourists was 83,000 in 2024 from 5000 in 2021. On the other hand the tourism industry contributes 7.2 per cent to the GDP of Jammu and Kashmir.
Container lorry topples over on Ennore-Manali Expressway, traffic hit
The police removed the lorry with cranes, and traffic flow was restored after three hours
Himachal Pradesh, known as the 'snowy mountains,' is experiencing an unusual heat wave, prompting an alert across several districts. Temperatures in popular tourist destinations like Shimla and Manali have surged above normal, with Una exceeding 41C. The Meteorological Centre forecasts the heat wave to persist in Una, Kullu, and Mandi until April 30, with potential thunderstorms expected in early May.
Thunderstorm, hailstorm batter parts of Himachal Pradesh causing widespread damage
CHANDIGARH: A squall accompanied by heavy rain and hailstorms lashed several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday night, causing widespread damage and power outages were across the state. Shimla remained without electricity for several hours. The weather department has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning in parts of the state on April 18 and 19. Meanwhile, heavy rains also lashed Punjab and Chandigarh. The squall struck Shimla around 11:15 PM plunging the town into darkness, the power supply was restored 10 hours later. The thunderstorm uprooted trees causing damage to vehicles, and blew off the roofs of makeshift houses. In the upper Shimla region, high-velocity winds caused significant damage to apple and stone fruit trees like plum and apricot. In many areas, fruit was knocked off the trees. Apple growers in Jubbal and Rampur reported major losses. The weather office has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Solan, Sirmaur and Kinnaur districts on April 18 and 19. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti districts during this period. On April 20 light to moderate rains are likely at many places and at few places on April 21 and 22 due to fresh Western Disturbance, as a cyclonic circulation lies over the region. There was an appreciable fall in the minimum temperatures. Lahaul and Spitis Keylong was coldest at night with a low of 0.5 degree Celsius. As per MeT, Seobagh in Kullu district recorded the highest rainfall of 28.8 mm, followed by Lahaul-Spitis Kukumseri 23.8 mm, Narkanda 18 mm, Mandi 17.6 mm, Dharamshala 17 mm, Chamba 16 mm, Kalpa 15.6, Kufri 15 mm while the tourist resorts of Kasauli received 14.4 mm rain, Dalhousie 10 mm, Shimla 9.6 mm and Manali 6.8 mm. Heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds, lashed many parts of Punjab and Chandigarh late yesterday night and in the early today morning. As per the MeT Department Chandigarh received 8.3 mm of rain, however, the sky became clear in the morning and residents woke up to sunny weather. While Amritsar received (4.5 mm), Pathankot (3.2 mm), Gurdaspur (18.8 mm) and Rupnagar (6 mm) and in neighboring Haryana, Ambala received a light shower.
6 Offbeat Experiences In Manali That'll Show You A New Side Of The Himalayan Town
If you're up for ditching the itinerary and getting a little off track (sometimes literally), here's a version of Manali that feels wilder, cooler, and way more personal.
Chandigarh Diary | Kangana being Kangana over Rs 1 lakh power bill
Bollywood actress and BJP MP from Mandi, Kangana Ranaut raised eyebrows recently by claiming that she had received an electricity bill of around a mind-boggling Rs 1 lakh for a single month for her unoccupied house in Manali. It is a miserable situation. I feel ashamed as to what is happening, she had said while hitting out at the Himachal Pradesh government. State Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, however, dismissed it as a case of Kangana being Kangana. He noted that the actor is known for making sensational remarks. He further remarked that Kangana, being more of an artiste than a politician, likes being dramatic on stage. BJP leaders bat for Waqf as protests continue As members of Muslim organisations and Opposition leaders across the country are up in arms over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, BJP leaders are trying hard to allay the apprehensions of the minority community about the new legislation. Union Minister of Power and Urban Development and former Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar recently met with members of the Muslim community in Karnal and assured them that the amendment would ensure greater transparency and reduce land-related disputes. Khattar also said that thanks to the law, people will have the right to appeal Waqf boards decisions in court, a welcome change. Mann and Hamdard bury the hatchet after two yrs The bitterness between Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and Barjinder Singh Hamdard, the managing editor of a leading Punjabi daily, appears to be fading away. It all started after the Mann government ordered a vigilance probe into the Jang-E-Azadi Memorial at Kartarpur, in which Hamdard had played a key role. The vigilance bureau named Hamdard in an FIR registered last May. Mann and Hamdard didnt see eye to eye after that for two years... until Friday, when the two came face to face at the last rites (antim ardas) of Resham Kaur, wife of former BJP MP Hans Raj Hans, at a gurdwara in Jalandhar. Mann and Hamdard hugged each other on the occasion. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
The residents say roads in areas such as Manali, Old Washermenpet, and Adyar are riddled with potholes, making their daily commute an ordeal. They also express resentment over incomplete roadworks and temporary repairs carried out ahead of the monsoon
She was inspecting some of the ongoing works in the Manali and Madhavaram zones
Beyond Shimla and Manali: 6 lesser-crowded summer hill stations in India
Escape the summer crowds by exploring these offbeat hill stations in India. From lush valleys to remote villages, these serene getaways promise cool climates, scenic beauty, and peaceful experiences.
Ms Ranaut, the BJP Lok Sabha MP from Mandi, during a public meeting in her constituency recently, criticised the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh over the inflated electricity bills, a video of which went viral on social media.
Launching a scathing attack on the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, Kangana Ranaut alleged that she received an excessive electricity bill of Rs 1 lakh for her Manali home, where she does not even reside.
Chennai Corporation shuts down operations of Manali 10-tonne incinerator plant
This decision was made after a fact-finding report claimed that the incinerator had been operating without renewaing the annual Consent to Operate (CTO) certificate from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB). It was last obtained in March 2020, said sources.
Robbery To Fund Manali Trip: 4 Teens Arrested, 2 Minors Detained In Delhi
On Friday, a grocery shop owner filed a complaint stating that seven to eight unidentified boys barged into his shop. They looted cash and documents at gunpoint. They had also threatened him with a knife.
Guddu Dhanoa, known for his action-packed films like Ziddi, Salaakhen, and Jaal, recently recalled a terrifying accident during the filming of Jaal (2003). The mishap left both Sunny Deol and veteran actor Amrish Puri injured.
Zoji La Pass connecting Kashmir to Ladakh opening in record time
NEW DELHI: Zojila Pass connecting Kashmir Valley to Ladakh is set to open after remaining closed for record minimum duration. As per the sources, the pass will be opened for vehicle movement after a closure of mere 32 days, on 01 Apr 2025, by Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General BRO is to flag off the first convoy towards Ladakh on Tuesday, in the presence of other dignitaries. Zojila Pass, one of the most critical and challenging high-altitude passes in the world, serves as a strategic lifeline connecting Ladakh with the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India. It has its own unique challenge of freezing temperatures, lack of oxygen and frequent avalanches. Every year, it experiences heavy snowfall, forcing its closure during the harsh winter months. The Pass, located on Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri road at a height of 11, 643 feet, normally closes by mid-November every year, with the onset of winters when the temperatures dip to sub-zero degrees and opens only by end April the next year. This temporary closure impacts not only the movement of troops and essential supplies but also disrupts the daily lives of locals in Ladakh, who depend on this route for trade, medical support, and economic activities. As per the BRO this year's achievement is particularly remarkable, given the extreme weather conditions and the swift timeline in which the pass was reopened by the brave personnel of BRO. This year, the BRO added, the pass faced an unusually short but intense closure period due to relentless snowfall caused by a Western Disturbance from 27 February to 16 March. The sheer volume of accumulated snow posed a formidable challenge. However, the indomitable spirit of BRO personnel under Project Beacon and Project Vijayak ensured that restoration efforts commenced immediately after the snowfall subsided. Working under extreme conditions, battling sub-zero temperatures, high velocity winds, and avalanche-prone terrain, the BRO teams cleared the snow in a record 15 days, from 17 March to 31 March. Their unmatched dedication and technical expertise enabled traffic restoration, an extraordinary achievement that highlights the progress made in infrastructure maintenance in this harsh region. What was once a six-month closure has now been reduced to mere weeks, proving BRO's capability to overcome nature's toughest challenges. The pass is a crucial artery for military logistics, ensuring rapid deployment and sustenance of troops in Ladakh, a region of critical national significance. The region, specifically Ladakh, is strategically important as it shares disputed borders with Pakistan and China, with areas like Kargil, Siachen, Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) falling in this area. Other than air routes, Ladakh is linked by only two land routes with the rest of India: the 434 km Srinagar-Leh road and 475 km Manali-Leh road passing through Sarchu. The necessity to minimise the closure duration of the pass was felt once the standoff in Eastern Ladakh had set in by May 2020 and a large body of troops with their arms and equipment were moved in by the Indian Military. Leaving the vital road communication shut was not the option thus BRO initiated plans to gradually cut down this duration of Zojila choked with the snow. BRO was raised in 1960 and it has an authorized force level of 41,600 which includes 2,426 officers and 39,174 subordinates and is involved in creating and maintaining strategic roads and associated infrastructure.
From roads to railways: Govt shares key updates on how Ladakhs transport network is changing
Road connectivity and infrastructure in Ladakh have seen significant progress since it became a Union Territory in 2019. Over Rs 20,660 crore has been allocated for road development. Major projects include the Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway, a new terminal at Leh airport, and the Shinku La Tunnel to ensure all-weather connectivity. These developments aim to enhance civilian and military needs.
Ajab Singh, the driver who took the couple on a trip through Himachal Pradesh, said their behaviour did not indicate that they had just committed a brutal crime.
Video: Meerut Woman Celebrates Holi In Manali With Lover 11 Days After Killing Husband
Muskaan Rastogi celebrated Holi in Manali with lover Sahil Shukla just 11 days after killing her husband Saurabh Rajput. They were seen dancing and posing in a video from the celebration.
Video: Meerut Woman's Holi Celebrations With Lover, 11 Days After Cement Murder
Just 11 days after killing her husband, chopping up his body and leaving it to rot in a cement-lined drum, Muskaan Rastogi was playing Holi with her lover Sahil Shukla in Manali, laughing and posing for a video as if nothing had happened.
Pillow stuffing from Thailand and China faces dumping probe
India has launched an anti-dumping investigation on flexible slabstock polyol imports from China and Thailand amid allegations that low-priced imports are harming the domestic industry. The investigation follows a complaint by Manali Petrochemicals Limited, urging that China be treated as a non-market economy.
The investigation into the case brought to fore an extramarital affair between Saurabh Rajput's wife Muskaan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla.
This is part of Phase II of the civic bodys solid waste management initiative and will be implemented in Tiruvottiyur, Manali, Madhavaram, and Ambattur zones
Strategic BilaspurManaliLeh Rail Line Completes DPR Stage; To Cost Rs 1.31 Lakh Crore: Railways
The Bilaspur-Manali-Leh (489 km) alignment starts from Beri and passes through major towns including Sundernagar, Mandi, Manali, Sissu, Darcha, Keylong, Sarchu, Pang, Rumtse, Upshi, and Kharu, before terminating at Leh.
Anticipated cost of providing rail connectivity to Kargil Rs 1.31 lakh crore: Ashwini Vaishnaw
NEW DELHI, Mar 12: The anticipated cost of the new Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway line that will provide connectivity to Kargil is Rs 1,31,000 crore, the Government said on Wednesday. In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on whether the Government has any plan to conduct a survey for connecting Ganderbal in Kashmir with Kargil, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said a Detailed Project Report of the new Bilaspur-Manali-Leh line has been prepared. Bilaspur-Manali-Leh New Line, falling partly in [] The post Anticipated cost of providing rail connectivity to Kargil Rs 1.31 lakh crore: Ashwini Vaishnaw appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
