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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

News18 15 Sep 2025 12:40 pm

Mountain of waste at unused site irks Manali locals

CHENNAI: For the past two months, unprocessed waste is being dumped at the abandoned segregation site near the closed 10-tonne incineration plant in Chinna Mathur, Manali, according to residents. Workers of Chennai Enviro Solutions Private Limited, dump garbage at the site despite it being locked, and add to the pile of waste which has already existed there for over two years, locals alleged. The unprocessed waste, dumped over the locked sites compound wall, has left the locality reeking, sparking concerns regarding possible health hazards and the waste dump turning into breeding grounds for mosquitos and fruit flies. Adding to this, construction waste and bags of sand has also been dumped near incineration plant. However, after TNIE brought the issue to the attention of an official of the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), a portion of the waste was cleared on Sunday. Ezhilarasi R (53), a long-time resident, said, Ive lived here for 30 years. This was used as a segregation site in 2023 before operations shifted to Manjambakkam and then became ward-specific. However, for the past two years, this abandoned site has been filled with mounds of garbage. Now, non-segregated waste from five to six wards is also being dumped here. As soon as the 13 bins in the area overflow, workers throw garbage on the ground or into the abandoned site, especially in the evenings, she said, adding that earlier, at least one vehicle would clear the waste, but no lorry has come in months. The site is turning into a secondary dump yard, she added. Meanwhile, residents also reported recent fire incidents, alleging that unidentified individuals have been burning garbage in the area, worsening pollution and further deteriorating the situation. Harish, another resident, said, On Thursday around 6.30 pm, when the waste pile was unusually large, it caught fire, and fire services arrived to douse the flames. Ezhil added that similar incidents have occurred two to three times already, but it is unclear who is burning the waste. Supervisors from Chennai Enviro Solutions said, The site was closed months ago, with waste already inside. It was expected that GCC tipper lorries would clear it, but the waste has not been removed till date. When asked why workers continue to dump garbage inside, they said that they were not aware of such instances. Speaking to TNIE, an official from the solid waste management department confirmed, After the issue was brought to our attention, the garbage was removed by the concessionaire today, but due to slushy conditions, machinery could not access some portions. Those areas will be cleared tomorrow.

The New Indian Express 15 Sep 2025 9:04 am

Himachal monsoon havoc: 574 roads shut, 389 transformers and 333 water schemes hit; death toll 394, says SDMA

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.

The Economic Times 13 Sep 2025 8:56 pm

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 New Indian Express 13 Sep 2025 3:36 pm

Council to revive ManaliEnnore region

The Times of India 10 Sep 2025 3:35 am

Tamil Nadu government launches Marine Resources Foundation to protect and restore marine biodiversity

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

The Hindu 9 Sep 2025 7:32 pm

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

The Hindu 5 Sep 2025 11:58 pm

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.

The New Indian Express 5 Sep 2025 6:29 pm

Rains batter Himachal: 5 dead in house collapses, 1,337 roads closed, schools shut in 3 districts

SHIMLA: Five people were killed in house collapse incidents as torrential rains triggered landslides and flash floods across Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, blocking 1,337 roads, including four national highways, officials said. The local meteorological office has issued an orange alert, warning of heavy rain in isolated areas of Kangra, Mandi, Sirmaur and Kinnaur districts on Wednesday and a yellow alert for heavy rain in Una and Bilaspur districts. In Solan district's Samloh village, a woman died after she was buried under the debris of her house that collapsed following heavy rain late on Monday. The deceased was identified as Hemlata. Her husband, Heem Ram, four children, and her 85-year-old handicapped mother-in-law escaped with minor injuries. In another incident, a man and a woman were rescued from the rubble after their house caved in following rain in Kullu's Dhalpur. The woman later succumbed to her injuries, police said, adding that the details of the deceased were awaited. Officials said that a landslide that occurred near Jangam Bagh BBMB colony in Sundernagar in Mandi district on Tuesday evening claimed three lives -- two women and a child. The deceased have been identified as Bharti (28) and her 2.5-year-old daughter Kirtan. They were rescued and taken to hospital where they were declared dead. One of the bodies is yet to be identified, they said. Two-three more people are feared trapped under the debris, the officials said. The teams of National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force and police are carrying out the rescue operations, Deputy Commissioner Mandi, Apporv Devgan, who was at the spot, told the PTI. All government and private educational institutes, including coaching centres and nursing institutes, in Shimla, Kangra and Sirmaur districts have been ordered to remain shut on Wednesday. Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, in an order issued on Tuesday evening, said Shimla has been experiencing continuous rainfall for the last few days and there was a high possibility of landslides at several locations across the district, according to the latest Geological Survey of India forecast. Teachers and administrative staff are exempted from attending educational institutions, and online classes will be conducted, the order said. In view of an orange warning of heavy rains, educational institutions will remain shut in Kangra and Sirmaur districts, orders issued by the respective deputy commissioners of the two districts said. A vehicle stuck in Manalsu drain, flowing in spate, after heavy monsoon rain, at Manali in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025. About nine villages in Manali were cut off after floods in the Manalsu drain, which also obstructed the Manali-Leh route. A landslide behind the Paddal gurdwara area in Mandi town damaged two houses on Monday night. However, no casualties were reported as the residents evacuated on time, the officials said. The two affected families have been shifted to safer locations, while occupants of nearby houses facing similar risks have vacated their homes, they said. An under-construction house was damaged following a landslide in the Anni area of Kullu district. No casualty was reported as the house had already been declared unsafe during the 2023 monsoon disaster and was vacant. As many as 16 families have been asked to vacate their houses after cracks developed in Dadwal village in the Naina Devi area of Bilaspur district, according to the officials. The document verification of shortlisted candidates for the post of constable in Himachal Pradesh Police has been postponed in view of the roads being blocked due to heavy rains. The verification drive that was supposed to be held from September 4 to 9 will now take place from September 24 to 29, a statement issued here said. Of the 1,337 blocked roads, 282 are in Mandi, 255 in Shimla, 239 in Chamba, 205 in Kullu and 140 in Sirmaur district, among others. National Highway 3 (Mandi-Dharampur road), National Highway 305 (Aut-Sainj), National Highway 5 (Old Hindustan-Tibet road) and National Highway 707 (Hatkoti to Poanta) were also blocked, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) said. The Shimla-Kalka National Highway 5, also known as the Hindustan-Tibet Road, and the Chandigarh-Manali Highway were also obstructed by landslides, causing major inconvenience to commuters. The situation is much severe in the interior regions where link roads have remained blocked, preventing apple producers from transporting their produce to the markets. On Monday, trains plying on the Shimla-Kalka track were cancelled following landslips. Services will remain suspended till September 5, the officials said. Efforts are afoot to send about 5,000 Manimahesh pilgrims stuck in Chamba district back home. Sixteen pilgrims have died since the yatra started on August 15, they said. Naina Devi has received 198.2 mm of rain since Monday evening, the highest in the state. Manali received 89 mm of rainfall, Rohru 80 mm, Mandi 78.2 mm, Dharamshala 76.3 mm, Kukumseri 74.2 mm, Chamba 72 mm, Bhuntar 69.7 mm, Jot 61.2 mm, Nahan 59.7 mm, Baggi 58.5 mm, Keylong and Una 57 mm each, Nadaun 53 mm and Olinda 50 mm. At least 340 people have died in rain-related incidents and road accidents, while 41 are missing since the monsoon began, the SEOC data showed. As many as 2,180 power transformers and 777 water supply schemes were disrupted across the state on Monday, the SEOC said. Since the onset of monsoon in Himachal on June 20, the state has witnessed 95 flash floods, 45 cloudbursts and 121 major landslide incidents. The state has suffered losses to the tune of Rs 3,523 crore this monsoon so far, according to official data. 380 tourists evacuated from Sissu, Manimahesh Yatris stranded in Chamba as Himachal reels under heavy rains

The New Indian Express 3 Sep 2025 10:24 am

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.

The Times of India 3 Sep 2025 4:41 am

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.

News18 2 Sep 2025 8:55 pm

NHAI deploys Army's Chinook helicopter to airlift machinery for restoration work on NH-21 in Himachal Pradesh

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.

The Economic Times 2 Sep 2025 9:52 am

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

The New Indian Express 1 Sep 2025 1:17 pm

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.

The Economic Times 31 Aug 2025 12:56 pm

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 Hindu 31 Aug 2025 12:49 pm

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

The Hindu 30 Aug 2025 6:30 pm

10 pilgrims dead, eight missing, 6,000 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 6,000 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.

The New Indian Express 30 Aug 2025 6:27 pm

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.

The New Indian Express 30 Aug 2025 6:27 pm

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

The Hindu 29 Aug 2025 11:18 pm

Rain ravages: 5 killed in cloudbursts in Uttarakhand, a chunk of Manali washed away, Punjab submerged

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.

The Economic Times 29 Aug 2025 8:45 pm

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.

The New Indian Express 28 Aug 2025 1:16 pm

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

The Hindu 28 Aug 2025 9:22 am

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.

News18 27 Aug 2025 6:01 pm

Chandigarh-Manali National Highway closed for last 3 days; hundreds of cargo vehicles stranded

Amid heavy rains, the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway has been closed for traffic from Pandoh to Aut in Mandi district for the last three days. Due to this, hundreds of cargo vehicles are stranded on the highway, and vegetables and goods are spoiling.

The Economic Times 27 Aug 2025 3:22 pm

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

News18 27 Aug 2025 3:01 pm

Monsoon Havoc: PM Modi Expresses Grief Over Deaths In Vaishno Devi Landslide; Tourists Stranded In Manali

At least 30 people lost their lives after incessant rains triggered a landslide near the popular shrine in Jammu and Kashmirs Katra

News18 27 Aug 2025 1:56 pm

Heavy rains cut off Kullu, Manali and Lahaul-Spiti; 687 roads closed, IMD issues red alert in Himachal

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.

The New Indian Express 27 Aug 2025 1:55 pm

Himachal: Massive destruction due to heavy rains in Kullu, NH-3 damaged, Beas river swells, authorities issue advisories

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.

DNA India 26 Aug 2025 11:55 pm

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.

The Times of India 26 Aug 2025 6:33 pm

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.

News18 26 Aug 2025 3:50 pm

Heavy rain batters Himachal: Roads closed, restaurant washed away in Manali; locals evacuated in Mandi

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.

The New Indian Express 26 Aug 2025 1:13 pm

Himachal Pradesh monsoon havoc: IMD warns of heavy rain, Kullu landslide cuts off 15 panchayats, horrifying video emerges

The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway is blocked due to multiple landslides and flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall in the region.

DNA India 18 Aug 2025 1:37 pm

Shillong Emerges as Indias Favourite Travel Hotspot in 2025

HT DIGITAL SHILLONG, AUGUST 18: In spite of recent negative media attention due to the infamous honeymoon murder case, Shillong in Meghalaya has come out as Indias most searched travel spot for 2025, as per Skyscanners Travel Trends Report. The report put Shillong over crowd-pullers like Goa and Manali, projecting its robust and long-term charm. []

thehillstimes 18 Aug 2025 11:40 am

Flood warnings issued in Punjab districts as Ravi river swells due to heavy rains in Himachal

CHANDIGARH: Heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has triggered a flood-like situation in six districts of Punjab, with authorities issuing fresh alerts for vulnerable areas. The districts affected include Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur and Tarn Taran, where rising water levels in rivers and breaches in temporary embankments have raised concerns. The situation in Gurdaspur district remains critical as the local administration has issued a fresh alert, warning the public that the Ravi river is expected to receive more than 1.5 lakh cusecs of water today. Streams and nullahs in the Kathua region of Jammu and Kashmir are reportedly running at full capacity. Villages identified as vulnerable include Kanna, Chountra, Chakri Slach, Adhi, Zainpur, Thakurpur, Rosa, Chanduwadala, Kamalpur Jattan, Dera Baba Nanak, Dharamkot Pattan, Gurchak and Ghanyie Ke Bet. The administration has directed residents in these areas to remain on alert. In Tarn Taran district, the water level at the Harike headworks continues to rise following the release of 90,000 cusecs of water. The Sutlej river recorded an inflow of 1.12 lakh cusecs today, creating the possibility of flood-like conditions in downstream areas. The district administration has urged people living along the riverbanks to shift to safer locations. In light of the rising water levels in dams due to persistent rainfall over the past few days in the mountainous regions of neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal today reviewed the prevailing situation in several districts through detailed telephonic conversations with the concerned Deputy Commissioners. Another cloudburst hit Himachals Mandi; traffic disrupted on Chandigarh-Manali highway He issued strict instructions to ensure swift mitigation measures and safeguard lives and property. Goyal said that flood-like conditions have emerged within the land between embankments of rivers passing through Kapurthala, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Fazilka and Ferozepur districts due to rising water levels and breaches in temporary embankments allegedly constructed by farmers within the flood plains. He said that around 14,200 acres across Kapurthala, Ferozepur and Fazilka districts have been affected by floodwaters. He specified that among the affected areas, Kapurthala districts impacted land comprises residential settlements, while the affected areas in Fazilka and Ferozepur are primarily agricultural land under cultivation. Goyal said that both the state government and district administration are fully committed to providing all possible assistance to the affected population. Discussing the departmental surveillance management system, Goyal said that field operations involve continuous 24-hour monitoring by four Superintending Engineers (SEs), 10 Executive Engineers (XENs), 20 Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) and 200 field staff members, including Junior Engineers. He explained that the entire vulnerable region has been systematically divided into sectors to facilitate immediate response and intervention measures. Goyal directed Deputy Commissioners to immediately set up relief camps in the affected regions to provide shelter, food and medical facilities to the displaced population. He stated that the embankments built by the department are safe and no water has overflowed from these embankments. Strict vigilance is being maintained 24x7 over these embankments by strong roster-based teams, he said. Cloudburst, landslide in J-K village leaves seven dead; rescue operations continue in Kishtwar He further instructed Deputy Commissioners to make special arrangements for the safety and well-being of livestock, including setting up separate shelters, ensuring fodder and drinking water supplies and deploying veterinary teams in affected areas. He stressed that vulnerable groups such as children, elderly persons and pregnant women must receive priority medical assistance. He directed that arrangements for clean drinking water, mobile health units and uninterrupted supply of essential medicines must be ensured to prevent any outbreak of waterborne diseases. Goyal also instructed the Deputy Commissioners of Tarn Taran and Ferozepur to personally monitor the Harike headworks round-the-clock in view of increased water inflow from the Sutlej and Beas rivers due to heavy rains in upper areas. Meanwhile, the health department is on high alert due to the flood-like situation in Punjab. A total of 172 ambulances, 438 rapid response teams and 323 mobile medical teams have been deployed for flood-affected areas. The civil surgeons of Ferozepur, Tarn Taran, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala and Fazilka have been asked to remain on alert in view of the weather conditions. All medical professionals have been told to respond within 30 minutes of any emergency. Deputy Commissioners have been asked to ensure that health teams can reach villages cut off by floods, using boat ambulances.

The New Indian Express 17 Aug 2025 6:55 pm

Himachal CM Sukhu Reviews Flood, Landslide Situation In Mandi, Kullu

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reviewed the impact of continuous rainfall in Mandi, Kullu, and Kinnaur. Flash floods disrupted traffic on the Chandigarh-Manali Highway.

News18 17 Aug 2025 6:52 pm

Himachal: Multiple flash floods in Mandi after heavy rains, Kiratpur-Manali NH blocked

Shimla, Aug 17: Heavy downpour in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi district triggered landslides and flash floods, with debris entering many houses in Panarsa, Takoli and Nagwain areas. No loss of life has been reported in the flash floods. Rescue operations are underway in the district at multiple locations. Teams have been deployed to the affected areas and people have been advised to stay away from rivers and streams. The 4-lane Kiratpur-Manali National Highway is blocked due to waterlogging. Many streams and [] The post Himachal: Multiple flash floods in Mandi after heavy rains, Kiratpur-Manali NH blocked appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 17 Aug 2025 4:25 pm

Another cloudburst hit Himachals Mandi; traffic disrupted on Chandigarh-Manali highway

CHANDIGARH: Another massive cloudburst was reported at the Takoli area over Shalanal Nala in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, resulted in water and debris flooding Kiratpur-Manali national highway and disrupting the traffic on the Shimla-Mandi highway. The cloudburst during the early hours on Sunday, causing destruction of private and government infrastructures. No casualties have been reported in the fresh cloudburst so far. Residents, tourists, and workers have been strictly advised to maintain a safe distance from the riverbanks during this period. Apart from these, the boundary walls of some government offices and several houses were damaged badly. The wall of an infrastructure firm was also collapsed and employees ran for their lives, but no casualties were reported. The highway was also blocked at Jhalogi between Mandi and Kullu, with authorities estimating four to five hours for restoration. Mandi police have deployed teams to clear the route, while the alternative Kataula-Kamand road remains partially affected. 31 killed in 51 events of cloudburst, flash flood in Himachal Pradesh since onset of monsoon In another incident, the Shimla-Mandi highway near Tattapani has sunk into the Sutlej river, leaving only a 4.2-meter-wide stretch passable. Authorities have restricted traffic movement as continuous rainfall worsens the situation. Meanwhile, the Pong Dam in Kangra district reached 1,379.98 feet, prompting the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to release 57,221 cusecs of waterthe highest discharge this monsoon. Of this, 17,620 cusecs were released through turbines and 39,601 cusecs via spillways. The dams inflow surged to 1,09,789 cusecs due to heavy rains in catchment areas. With the danger level marked at 1,390 feet, BBMB has alerted Kangra and Hoshiarpur administrations, as low-lying areas face submersion risks. In Mand Bhograwan village, rising Beas river waters have submerged acres of farmland and threatened homes, forcing over 100 families to evacuate. A multi-storey house stands on the verge of collapse, with authorities shifting residents to safer locations. Tributaries like Dehar Khud, Dehri Khud and Buhal Khud are in spate, compounding the crisis. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Kullu, Mandi, Chamba, Kangra, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Una, Solan, and Sirmaur districts, predicting heavy rains, while Shimla, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti are under a yellow alert. With more rainfall expected, officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay alert for updates. Himachal Pradesh to install 48 weather stations for enhanced rainfall and cloudburst warnings Himachal Pradesh: Cloudbursts & ravaging rain fury

The New Indian Express 17 Aug 2025 1:15 pm

Torrents of muddy water: Video shows Kullu flash floods; NH blocked, restoration under way

Flash floods triggered by incessant heavy rainfall and a cloudburst have caused widespread disruption in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, blocking the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway. While no casualties have been reported so far, the floods exacerbate the state's already devastating monsoon season, which has seen 261 deaths and massive infrastructure damage.

The Times of India 17 Aug 2025 10:15 am

Flash Floods Block Major Highway, Himachal's Monsoon Death Count Rises To 261

Multiple flash flood incidents were reported on Sunday in Mandi district at Panarsa, Takoli, and Nagwain areas along the Mandi-Kullu stretch of the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway.

NDTV 17 Aug 2025 10:11 am

Himachal Pradesh: Flash floods hit Panarsa, Takoli, Nagwain areas; highway connectivity disrupted

Flash floods struck Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, disrupting traffic on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway. While no human losses were reported, the state grapples with the aftermath of heavy monsoon rains, recording 261 deaths since June. Extensive damage to infrastructure and property has been reported, with restoration efforts underway amidst ongoing challenges from landslides and continuous rainfall.

The Economic Times 17 Aug 2025 9:29 am

Flash floods hit Himachal: Highway blocked with fresh landslide; Mandi, Kullu, Kinnaur worst hit as continuous rain hampers restoration efforts

Flash floods in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district have severely disrupted connectivity, particularly along the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway. Heavy rainfall across the state has resulted in numerous road closures, power outages, and water supply disruptions, with Mandi, Kullu, and Kinnaur being the most affected.

The Times of India 17 Aug 2025 8:37 am

9 Himachal Pradesh families vacate homes due to cracks, sinking land

Unscientific road widening by the NHAI along the Kiratpur-Manali highway has forced at least nine families to evacuate their homes in five Himachal Pradesh villages. Houses developed cracks and agricultural land began sinking due to the unstable land caused by the highway work. Residents are seeking compensation from NHAI for the damages.

The Times of India 13 Aug 2025 4:31 am

Kinnaur Kailash Yatra suspended, 413 devotees rescued after cloudburst triggers flash flood in Himachal

CHANDIGARH: The Kinnaur Kailash Yatra in Himachal Pradesh has been suspended, and nearly 413 stranded devotees were rescued and evacuated in a nine-hour operation after a cloudburst triggered a flash flood that washed away a large part of the trekking path, including makeshift bridges at Tanglippi and Kangarang. The pilgrims currently on the route have been safely sheltered at Milling Khata and Gufa, and all necessary arrangements have been made for their safety. Most of the trekking paths have either become dangerously slippery or have been hit by landslides, posing a serious threat to the safety of pilgrims. In view of these adverse conditions, the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra is being temporarily suspended until further notice, stated an official order. Sources said that the rescue operation, which started last night, successfully rescued all pilgrims who were trapped on different sides of the mountain and were unable to cross the river. The devotees were rescued using the rope-based traverse crossing technique. In this method, the pilgrims were attached to ropes and safely brought to the other side of the river, then shifted to safer locations. A 34-member Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) team, in coordination with a 14-member team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), was mobilised, and the search and rescue operation was launched after a distress call was made by the Kinnaur district administration, said an official. Sources said that on Thursday morning, the authorities informed the ITBP that more pilgrims were stranded at other locations, after which additional rescue teams were mobilised. ITBP wrote on X, Responding to the requisition from DC Kinnaur, #ITBP has deployed a rescue team under AC/GD Sameer with mountaineering and RRC equipment after two makeshift bridges on the Kinnaur Kailash Yatra route were washed away due to incessant rains, leaving several yatris stranded. Kinnaur Kailash, considered to be the winter residence of Lord Shiva, is located at an altitude of 19,850 feet. The yatra began on July 15 and was scheduled to continue till August 30. Meanwhile, educational institutions including schools, colleges, and anganwadis were closed in Sunni, Kumarsein, Chopal, Dodra Kwar, Jubbal, Theog, and Rampur subdivisions of Shimla district; Karsog and Sundernagar in Mandi district; Nirmand in Kullu district; and some subdivisions in Solan district. Several schools in Shimla city announced holidays or switched to online classes. Additionally, the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway (NH 21), Old Hindustan-Tibet Road (NH 05), Mandi-Dharampur (NH 3), and Aut-Sainj road (NH 305) were closed for vehicular traffic following landslides. The Shimla-Kalka National Highway, which was blocked at Chakki Mor near Koti in Solan district, has since been opened for vehicular movement. Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited (SJPNL) officials cautioned the public about disruptions in water supply for the next two to three days due to high turbidity at the source. The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) reported that 617 roads including four national highways were cut off on Wednesday (August 6, 2025). Of these, 377 are in Mandi district, which was recently battered by cloudbursts, landslides, and flash floods, and 90 are in Kullu district.

The New Indian Express 6 Aug 2025 4:22 pm

Multiple Landslides Block Mandi-Manali Route, Tourists Spend Night On Highway

People travelling to Kullu and Manali have been stranded for over 12 hours now and have had to spend the night in their vehicles.

NDTV 6 Aug 2025 2:13 pm

Himachal Rains: Schools, colleges shut in Shimla's six sub-divisions as IMD warns of rainfall

Himachal Pradesh faces heavy rainfall. The IMD forecasts more intense rainfall in several districts. Schools are closed in six subdivisions due to the weather. The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway is also closed. Sadly, 194 deaths have been reported during the monsoon season. The state has suffered significant financial losses. The SDMA reports 108 deaths directly related to rain.

The Economic Times 6 Aug 2025 9:05 am

Himachal rains: 453 roads blocked across state, total loss touches Rs 1,700 crore

CHANDIGARH: Heavy downpour since Monday evening triggered widespread landslides and flooding across Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, blocking the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway and several other roads and disrupting day to day life. A total of 453 roads including four national highways closed across the state. Till now, 192 persons have lost their lives in landslides, cloudbursts, flashfloods and 301 are injured. The total loss caused by flashfloods and torrential rain in the state has touched Rs 1,753.63 crore. As per the state emergency operation centre, as on Tuesday morning, 449 roads and four national highways were blocked across the state. Of these, 318 roads and three national highways are in Mandi district, 67 roads and one national highways in Kullu district, 23 roads in Kangra district, 22 roads in Sirmour district, ten roads in Una district, four each in Bilaspur and Chamba districts and one in Shimla. Additionally, 753 electricity transformers have been damaged and 276 water supply schemes disrupted. The Public Works Department suffered a loss of Rs 880 crore, followed by the Jal Shakti Department at Rs 618 crore, horticulture sector Rs 27.43 crore and the agriculture sector Rs 11.45 crore. Sources said that the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway has been blocked at many places due to landslides and continuous shooting stones. Also, the alternate road via KataulaKamand is blocked due to similar conditions. Not only these important roads, the Mandi-Dharampur highway via Kotli is blocked near Kainchi Mod and Mandi-Jogindernagar highway is also impassable. The Mandi-Rewalsar road near Lohardi has been blocked as several link roads in different parts of the district have reported landslides and water logging. Due to incessant rains, the Beas River and its tributaries are on the verge of flooding low-lying regions. Due to water logging in the Balh area of Mandi the movement of public and emergency services has further complicated. The district administration has launched extensive restoration efforts but due to persistent rainfall and unstable terrain these efforts have been hampered. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and regular updates are expected as conditions evolve. Meanwhile, road users are being urged to strictly follow the instructions issued by local authorities and on-ground personnel. Mandi Police have issued public advisories urging residents and travelers to avoid unnecessary movement and stay away from riversides and landslide-prone zones. Emergency response teams are on alert and restoration machinery has been deployed to clear debris and reopen the affected routes. The Meteorological Department has forecasted continued rainfall for the next few hours, prompting authorities to remain vigilant. An orange alert for heavy rain in Una, Bilaspur and Kangra districts and a yellow alert for heavy rain in Sirmaur, Mandi and Hamirpur districts on August 5 have been issued.

The New Indian Express 5 Aug 2025 1:17 pm

Himachal: Heavy rain batters Kullu-Mandi, Rivers in spate; Chandigarh-Manali Highway blocked at multiple points

Heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu and Mandi districts has caused widespread disruption, blocking roads and damaging infrastructure. The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway is closed due to landslides, leaving commuters stranded. Mandi is the worst-hit, with numerous rain-related deaths and significant damage to water and power services, impacting daily life.

The Economic Times 5 Aug 2025 9:09 am

Video: 50 Metres Road On Chandigarh-Manali Highway Damaged After Landslide

A massive landslide struck the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway near Pandoh Dam in the Mandi district, completely blocking traffic and causing a major disruption in the region.

NDTV 1 Aug 2025 12:05 pm

Himachal rains: Three dead, one injured as sudden downpour triggers flood in Mandi

CHANDIGARH: At least three people have died and one injured missing in Mandi town of Himachal Pradesh due to heavy rain overnight. More than 20 vehicles have been submerged and around two dozen houses partially damaged; the Chandigarh-Manali national highway, Chandigarh-Dharamsala, Mandi-Pathankot and Shimla-Mataur highways have been blocked. Sources said that a flash flood struck Mandi district early Tuesday morning. Four members of a family had reportedly come out of their house in the wee hours to shift their vehicle to a safer place, but were swept away in the sudden flood; three have been confirmed dead, while one person suffered a fracture and has been admitted to a local hospital. The incident occured on Jail Road Tungal colony in Mandi town as Sukati nullah overflowed due to sudden heavy rains and caused widespread destruction. The water entered several locations in about five-kilometer area besides the Jail Road, Saini Mohalla and Zonal hospital area. The flashflood washed away dozens of parked vehicles, while muck and debris entered homes and damaged property. Locals were caught off guard by the sudden rise in water levels. Rescue and relief operations are ongoing; teams of SDRF, volunteers and district administration are engaged in clearing debris and are trying to locate the missing person. Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, Apoorva Devgan said that rescue operations are in full swing and about 15 to 20 people have been rescued. The victims were attempting to move their vehicles to safer locations when they were washed away along with their vehicles. The body of one person was found stuck in an auto-rickshaw, he added. Devgan said that more than dozen people trapped inside their houses were rescued. The rescue teams had to break window panes and doors to rescue them as their houses were filled with mud and silt, he said. The flash floods triggered landslides, blocking the Chandigarh-Manali NH at multiple points, specifically at 4 Miles, 9 Miles near Pandoh and Dwada. Also, the Mandi-Pathankot highway is blocked due to a landslide at the Lavandi Bridge near Jogindernagar. Many other interior roads in the district have also been blocked due to landslides and water-logging. A massive landslide triggered by incessant rains blocked the National Highway near Kangra, cutting off the only main road access to Dharamsala, McLeodganj and surrounding areas. Landslides also blocked the Shimla-Mataur National Highway at Old Kangra Ghat and reports of uprooting of trees and electricity have also poured from several parts of the state. The Met office had issued an orange alert of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated areas of Kangra, Mandi and Kullu districts on Tuesday. It also issued a yellow warning of heavy rains at isolated places in Chamba, Shimla and Sirmaur districts on Tuesday, and Una, Kangra, Mandi and Kullu districts on Wednesday. Since the start of the monsoon season this year from June 20 till July 28, the hill state has suffered a loss of Rs 1523 crore. So far 90 people have died and 35 have gone missing in rain-related incidents and 1320 houses have been fully or partially damaged in the state. A total of 200 roads, including 121 in the disaster-hit Mandi district, were closed for vehicular traffic on Monday night. 62 power distribution transformers and 110 water supply schemes have also been affected across the state, as per the State Emergency Operation Centre. Himachal seeks urgent Central aid as rain-triggered disasters cause Rs 883 crore loss, 109 deaths

The New Indian Express 29 Jul 2025 12:35 pm

Three killed, one missing as flash flood wreaks havoc in Himachal's Mandi

The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway has been closed at 4 Mile, 9 Mile and Dwada as the road stretches have been washed away.

The Hindu 29 Jul 2025 10:56 am

Himachal Pradesh: 2 dead, 2 missing after heavy rain triggers flood-like situation in Mandi district

Heavy rains in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi district caused floods and landslides, killing two and leaving two missing. Roads, power, and water supplies were severely disrupted, including blockage of the Chandigarh-Manali highway. The 2025 monsoon has claimed 164 lives statewide, with Mandi worst affected. Damages exceed 1.52 lakh crore, impacting homes, infrastructure, and essential services.

The Economic Times 29 Jul 2025 8:48 am

Goa, Manali And More: Cops, Having Affair, Go On The Run With Rs 2 Crore

A sub-inspector with the Delhi Police helped solve several cyber fraud cases. However, instead of returning the money, which came from the seized bank accounts, to the victims, he hatched an elaborate plan.

NDTV 22 Jul 2025 11:43 pm

Newlywed couple killed as landslides, flash floods wreak havoc in Himachal

CHANDIGARH: Heavy rainfall battered Himachal Pradesh, claiming the lives of a newlywed couple and disrupting connectivity across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extreme heavy rainfall in Shimla, Sirmaur, Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi districts and advised people to avoid travel. Several parts of the state have been receiving heavy showers since Sunday night. The newlywed couple was killed in Chamba after a boulder crashed onto their house while they were asleep. Deputy Commissioner of Chamba, Mukesh Repaswal, said that a landslide hit two houses at Chari village of Chamba early in the morning. They had got married three months ago and were visiting the womans parental house at Chari when the incident occurred. The bodies have been recovered, he said. The heavy rainfall has also triggered landslides which have blocked the Chandigarh-Manali national highway at several points and cut off access to Kasauli, with over 401 roads shut across the state. The highway has been blocked at several locations, including Dwada, Jhalogi, Kainchi Mod, and near Pandoh in Mandi district, as well as NH-305 near Banjar in Kullu district, bringing traffic to a standstill. While the main route remains closed, an alternative route between Mandi and Kullu via Kamand and Kataula is currently open and being used to divert vehicles. Rescue and road clearance teams have been deployed to restore connectivity, but ongoing rainfall continues to hamper the efforts. As many as 401 roads across the state remain blocked due to landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, according to data released this evening by the State Emergency Operation Centre. Of these, 242 are in Mandi district, 55 in Kullu, 27 each in Shimla and Sirmaur, and 25 in Chamba. The report also noted disruptions to 682 electricity transformers and 151 water supply schemes. In Sirmaur, National Highway (NH) 707 remains blocked near Uttari due to falling debris. Meanwhile, in Solan district, traffic movement was severely disrupted as multiple routes -- including Kotli-Dharampur, Dharampur-Subathu, Dharampur-Kasauli, Jandauri-Pratha-Nabon, Kunihar-Totu, Waknaghat-Mamlig, and Kasauli-Jangeshu -- were hit by landslides following continuous rainfall. Massive traffic jams have been reported on these roads, forcing many travellers to take long detours or cancel their travel plans altogether. Most rivers and rivulets across the state are also in spate, prompting the opening of floodgates at the Larji and Kol dams as a precautionary measure. In response to the rising water levels, the administrations in Mandi and Chamba have also ordered the closure of schools in several areas of the two districts. Flash floods were reported in Churah sub-division of Chamba and Anni sub-division of Kullu following two cloudbursts. Meanwhile, a flood-like situation has emerged in several parts of Seraj in Mandi district, which had already been hit by flash floods on July 1. Continuous rainfall has forced the closure of schools in several parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Thunag sub-division in Mandi, and Kumarsain, Theog, Rohru, Jubbal, and Chopal in Shimla district. In Mandi, a vehicle was buried under a landslide near Thalot, while the Nakrod-Thalli bridge in Chamba district was washed away. In Shimla, the Jubbarhatti road was shut, leaving office-goers stranded for hours. So far this monsoon season, the state has witnessed 34 flash floods, 22 cloudbursts, and 21 landslides, resulting in approximately Rs 1,235 crore in losses. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday spoke over the phone with the Deputy Commissioners of the affected districts to take stock of the situation caused by the ongoing spell of torrential rains. In light of the prevailing weather conditions, he directed officials to remain on alert and take proactive steps to prevent any untoward incidents. He also urged the public to stay away from rivers and nullahs. People's safety is our foremost priority. I request everyone to avoid going near water bodies and to strictly follow all advisories issued by the district administration, he said. Sukhu emphasised the importance of coordination among departments to ensure timely response in case of emergencies such as landslides, road blockages or flash floods. He directed that proper flow of essential services be ensured so that people do not face any inconvenience in their day to day activities. The chief minister also expressed grief over the death of the newly married couple at Sutaah gram panchayat of Rajnagar in Chamba district.

The New Indian Express 21 Jul 2025 8:30 pm

'Shilpa Shirodkar shot dead': Raghuveer actress reveals how a 90s promo stunt triggered chaos off-screen

While shooting Raghuveer in Kullu Manali in the 90s, Shilpa Shirodkar became the target of a shocking rumour; she was falsely reported to have been shot dead on set. With no mobiles or social media back then, panic spread fast, especially among her family. It was later revealed to be a film promotion stunt she knew nothing about. Shilpa now recalls the incident as she prepares for her big-screen comeback in the supernatural thriller Jatadhara.

The Economic Times 21 Jul 2025 1:18 pm

Heavy Rain Batters Himachal: Orange Alert Issued For 7 Districts, MandiManali NH Blocked

The weather department has also issued flash floods warning for the Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts.

News18 21 Jul 2025 8:16 am

Orange alert issued in Himachal Pradesh; roads blocked, Kinnar Kailash Yatra postponed

SHIMLA: Several roads were blocked and the ongoing Kinnar Kailash Yatra halted due to incessant rains in Himachal Pradesh on Friday. The pilgrimage to Kinnar Kailash, the winter abode of Lord Shiva located at an altitude of 19.850 feet in Kinnaur district, commenced on July 15 and was to continue till August 30. However, the rains have rendered the journey unsafe and hence the pilgrimage stands halted until the weather clears up and the route is declared safe, Kinnaur Police said. The Lahaul and Spiti administration has also temporarily suspended bike rides on the Manali-Leh highway until further orders. Torrential rains have led to the closure of around 250 roads in Himachal Pradesh. Accoring to the State Emergency Operation Centre, 181 roads were closed in disaster-hit Mandi, 26 in Sirmaur and 23 in Kullu district, while 61 water supply schemes and 81 power distribution transformers were affected as of Friday morning. The local meteorological office has issued an orange alert for 'heavy' to 'very heavy' rainfall in isolated areas of the state on July 21 and 23, officials said. A yellow alert has been issued for 'heavy' rains at isolated places till Sunday. Meanwhile, 'light' to 'moderate' rains lashed parts of the state on Thursday evening. Himachal seeks urgent Central aid as rain-triggered disasters cause Rs 883 crore loss, 109 deaths Jogindernagar received 40 mm of rain, Sarahan 38 mm, Jatton Barrage 28.6 mm, Kothi 28.4 mm, Shilaroo 26.4 mm, Murari Devi 26 mm, Narkanda 25.5 mm, Jot 23 mm, Poanta Sahib 22.2 mm, Dharamshala 21 mm, Palampur 19.8 mm, Kufri 18.1 mm, Shimla 16.6 mm, Dhaulakuan 14 mm, Manali 12.2 mm, Jubbarhatti 12 mm and Solan 11.2 mm Kangra and Palampur witnessed thunderstorms while Kufri and Bajaura saw gusty winds with speeds ranging from 37 to 39 kilometres per hour. The State Emergency Operation Centre said that from the onset of monsoon on June 20 to July 17, around 112 people have lost their lives -- 67 in rain-related incidents and 45 in road accidents. Around 199 people have been injured, while 35 are missing, it added. Himachal Pradesh, which has witnessed 31 flash floods, 22 cloudbursts and 19 landslides this monsoon, has suffered losses to the tune of Rs 1,220 crore, the department said. Meanwhile, officials said search operations are still continuing to trace the 27 people who were washed away in the cloudburst and landslides that hit parts of Mandi district on June 30 night. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the state government is working around the clock to provide relief and rehabilitation to people affected by natural disasters. Sukhu said that Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur is in constant touch with him, as his constituency Seraj has suffered extensive damages. Besides Seraj, other areas including Dharampur, Karsog and Nachan have also been severely affected by the rains, Sukhu said in a statement, adding that Union ministers have been apprised in detail about the situation in these regions during his recent Delhi visit. I hope the people of the state will receive some relief when the Union Home Minister visits Himachal Pradesh, the chief minister added. He emphasised that rehabilitation of the affected people is a prime responsibility of the state government. Non-forest lands will be allocated to them, as the allocation of forest lands would require approval from the Central government. The state's priority is to reopen roads in the disaster-hit regions to ensure farmers and horticulturists can transport apples, vegetables and other produce to the markets without hindrance, Sukhu said. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri informed that the Himachal Road Transport Corporation has resumed mini bus services on several routes in Seraj from Friday.

The New Indian Express 18 Jul 2025 8:58 pm

After Shimla and Manali this road in Himachal becomes a new tourist spot: Watch viral video

A road in Himachal Pradesh has become a spectacle. Electricity poles stand in the road's center. A viral video highlighted this unusual infrastructure. The video draws comparison with similar incidents. This has triggered online reactions. People are questioning the planning and coordination. The incident raises concerns about government infrastructure projects. It also highlights the need for better inter-departmental communication.

The Economic Times 16 Jul 2025 3:18 pm

Yellow Alert, Flash Flood Warning Issued As Rain Batters Himachal; Landslide On Badrinath Route

The weather department has sounded alert for Shimla, Manali, Kullu and other districts of Himachal Pradesh.

News18 10 Jul 2025 7:54 am

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.

NDTV 6 Jul 2025 8:36 pm

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.

The New Indian Express 1 Jul 2025 11:44 am

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.

The New Indian Express 1 Jul 2025 11:44 am

India monsoon LIVE: Light rains in Delhi, NCR; heavy rains forecast for some districts in Himachal Pradesh

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

The Hindu 30 Jun 2025 11:35 am

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.

The Economic Times 30 Jun 2025 10:33 am

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.

The New Indian Express 26 Jun 2025 10:10 am

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.

News18 26 Jun 2025 10:00 am

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.

The New Indian Express 25 Jun 2025 10:28 pm

Zipline accident: 12-year-old Nagpur girl injured after zipline rope snaps in Manali

Trisha suffered several fractures and has been undergoing treatment at a hospital since the accident last week

The Hindu 15 Jun 2025 5:06 pm

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.

DNA India 15 Jun 2025 4:50 pm

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 .

The Siasat Daily 15 Jun 2025 4:26 pm

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.

NDTV 15 Jun 2025 3:15 pm

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.

The Economic Times 15 Jun 2025 2:37 pm

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.

News18 15 Jun 2025 2:17 pm

Nagpur Girl Injured After Zipline Rope Snaps In Manali

12-Year-Old Suffers Multiple Fractures; Undergoes Surgery, Condition Stable

Deccan Chronicle 15 Jun 2025 2:14 pm

Punjab Man, 54, Dies Of High-Altitude Sickness In Himachal's Lahaul-Spiti

A 54-year-old man from Punjab died of high altitude sickness and hypoxemia at Darcha on the Manali-Leh National Highway in Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul-Spiti district, police said on Monday.

NDTV 2 Jun 2025 10:15 pm