Man Held In Himachal's Kangra On Charges Of Espionage, Mobile Sent To Forensic Lab
Raja Khas becomes Himachal's first solar model village
Raja Khas, in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district, is now the state's first Solar Model Village. The village won a competition focused on solar energy adoption. The government will provide Raja Khas with Rs 1 crore for further solar development. A Model Solar Village Implementation Agency will manage the project.
Urged PM Modi to ban apple imports from Turkey, Azerbaijan: Himachal CM Sukhu at NITI Aayog meet
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to prohibit apple imports from Turkey and Azerbaijan. He highlighted the financial losses faced by local orchardists. Sukhu also discussed Kangra Airport's expansion, proposing a cost-sharing arrangement with the Centre. He sought financial aid due to ongoing reforms.
Agniveer From Himachal Dies In Landslide In Kargil
Dharamshala (HP) May 21: A 25-year-old Agniveer from Himachal Pradesh died in a landslide while he was on duty in the Drass sector of Kargil, officials said on Wednesday. According to officials, Naveen Kumar (25) was serving with the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and lost his life in a landslide on May 20. The mortal remains of the deceased soldier are expected to reach his native Halun village in Thural Panchayat of Himachals Kangra on Thursday, where his last rites [] The post Agniveer From Himachal Dies In Landslide In Kargil appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Severe Storm Uproots Trees, Kills Two in Himachal's Kangra; Mandi Faces Heavy Damage
Water rises in Himachal's Pandoh dam; flash floods block Sansari-Thirot road in Lahaul-Spiti
SHIMLA: Authorities of Pandoh dam in Mandi district on Monday cautioned the general public and tourists not to venture to the banks of River Beas as spill gates could be opened anytime. Water levels in the dam is rising due to rain in surrounding areas and melting glaciers, they said. Himachal Pradesh saw isolated weather events at different areas in the state on Monday. Thunderstorms in the morning led to falling of trees in Sundernagar area in the district, causing inconvenience to school children and office-goers. Dark clouds overcast the sky in Mandi and Shimla. Thunderstorms also lashed Kangra, Palampur, Jot, Bhuntar, Kalpa, Mandi and Sundernagar, the local Met office said. Flash floods in Udaipur sub-division of Lahaul and Spiti district have blocked the Sansari-Killar-Tindi-Thirot road. The police have urged the public to avoid travelling on the road after its clearance was obstructed by rains. Parts of Himachal Pradesh received light rain since Sunday evening. Mandi received 16.4 mm rain, followed by Jot 15.8 mm, Kukumseri 13.2 mm, Kangra 12.4 mm, Bharmour 12 mm and Pandoh 10 mm. Kangra and Jot witnessed hailstorm. Gusty winds with a speed of 37-54 kilometres per hour hit Reckong Peo, Hamirpur, Tabo, Bilapsur, Kufri and Sundernagar. The local Met office has issued an orange warning for light to moderate rains accompanied by lightning, hail and gusty winds with a speed of 40-50 kilometres per hour at isolated places in Una and Shimla districts on Monday. It has also issued a yellow warning for light to moderate rains accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with a speed of 30-40 kilometres per hour at isolated places in Bilapsur, Mandi, Kullu, Hamirpur, Solan and Sirmaur districts. Light rain was predicted in Shimla and adjoining areas.
Rs 19 crore microfinancing scam rocks Belagavi, four held
BELAGAVI: A massive loan scam has rocked Belagavi district, where more than 7,700 individualsprimarily womenhave been defrauded collectively to the tune of approximately Rs 19.35 crore under the pretense of microfinance loan approvals. The police have arrested four persons in connection with the scam from various localities, including Yamnapur, Halbhavi, Kangrali KH and Kangrali BK. The accused have been identified as Ashwini Holappa Daddi, Holappa Fakirappa Daddi, Shewanti Holappa Daddi and Priyanka Holappa Daddi, all residents of Yamanapur in Belagavi taluk. They were, later, released on bail. The scam, which allegedly began in Belagavi taluk, has spread across the district and to other parts of Karnataka, said the police. The fraud came to light following a complaint lodged by one Sheikha Kannappa Hanchinmani, a resident of Sonatti village, at the Malmaruti Police Station. According to the complainant, four individuals from Yamnapur orchestrated the scheme by promising subsidised loans. They lured people by claiming that once a loan was approved, 60% of the amount would be taken by them as part of the scheme, while the remaining 40% would be provided to the borrower as a subsidy. They further reassured the victims that they would eventually repay the full loan amount on the borrowers behalf, the complainant said. However, after the loans were approved and the funds disbursed, the fraudsters disappeared leaving the victims saddled with the full repayment responsibility, including the 60% they never received. The scam has left many women in financial distress, with accumulating interest compounding their burden. Investigations are on to determine the full extent of the fraud and trace any additional accomplices.
Airlines asked to resume normal operations at 32 shut airports from May 15
NEW DELHI: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday night expressed optimism that airlines would resume their normal operations to the 32 closed airports from May 15. He released a statement to this effect after holding a review meeting with top officials and representatives of all airlines in New Delhi. The Minister said, With the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) ending on 15th May, I suggested that airlines resume their normal schedules from the 15th across all 32 airports for which the NOTAM was issued. All airlines responded positively to this suggestion. A Ministry source said, At present, partial operations are taking place. The full-fledged operations will resume from May 15. This was the outcome after the meeting held on Tuesday. The NOTAM to close 32 airports in the North and Western India upto May 15 (5.29 am) was issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on May 9 as a precautionary step after the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7 . A revised NOTAM by AAI said the airports would open for commercial operations from Monday (May 12) but leading airlines like Indigo and Air India had publicly stated they would not operate flights to specific airports on Monday and Tuesday (May 13). This was on account of unconfirmed reports of drone attacks by Pakistan at a few cities. Indigo operated a flight from Delhi to Amritsar but it had to turn back due to a sudden blackout imposed in Amritsar. Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 20px; } h2 { color: #d32f2f; /* A bold red color */ text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px; } table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; box-shadow: 0 0 8px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); } th, td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 12px 15px; text-align: left; } th { background-color: #c62828; /* A deep red */ color: white; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #f2f2f2; } tr:nth-child(odd) { background-color: #fafafa; } tr:hover { background-color: #f1f1f1; } .bold { font-weight: bold; } Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations Airport Location Status Ambala Haryana Closed Hindon UP Closed Naliya Gujarat Closed Sarsawa UP Closed Uttarlai Rajasthan Closed Srinagar Jammu & Kashmir Closed Awantipur Jammu & Kashmir Closed Jammu Jammu & Kashmir Closed Amritsar Punjab Closed Chandigarh Punjab Closed Ludhiana Punjab Closed Patiala Punjab Closed Bhatinda Punjab Closed Adampur Punjab Closed Halwara Punjab Closed Pathankot Punjab Closed Bhuntar Himachal Pradesh Closed Shimla Himachal Pradesh Closed Kangra-Gaggal Himachal Pradesh Closed Kishangarh Rajasthan Closed Thoise Ladakh Closed Leh Ladakh Closed Mundra Gujarat Closed Jamnagar Gujarat Closed Hirasar Gujarat Closed Porbandar Gujarat Closed Keshod Gujarat Closed Kandla Gujarat Closed Bhuj Gujarat Closed Jaisalmer Rajasthan Closed Jodhpur Rajasthan Closed Bikaner Rajasthan Closed Air India Announcement: In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. Indigo Announcement: All flights to and from Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Rajkot, Srinagar, and Chandigarh are cancelled for Tuesday (May 13). Responses from other airlines are awaited.
Pak Ceasefire Violation: J&K Official, Security Personnel, Civilians Killed
A Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Army Subedar Major Pawan Kumar, a resident of Shahpur in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, was killed in Pakistani shelling in Poonch on Saturday morning
'Bomb-like' iron piece falls in Kariyal village near Pathankot border, forms a crater
A mysterious, bomb-like iron object was discovered in Kariyal village, Kangra district, after villagers reported hearing explosions and witnessing a burning, rocket-like object falling from the sky. The impact created a crater in a paved road, prompting police to take possession of the unidentified metal piece. The incident occurred near Nurpur and Pathankot, raising concerns among local residents.
CBI Director Praveen Sood gets one year's extension
NEW DELHI: The Centre on Wednesday extended the tenure of CBI Director Praveen Sood by one year. Sood took over as the CBI director on May 25, 2023 for a two-year term. The decision to extend his tenure was taken in a meeting of the selection committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Monday, officials said. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), based on the recommendations of the selection committee, approved Sood's extension for a period of one year beyond May 24. Sood is a 1986-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Karnataka cadre. He was working as Karnataka's director general of police (DGP) when he was named as the director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Born in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district in 1964, Sood joined the IPS at the age of 22 years after completing his civil engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. He also holds a post-graduation degree from the Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru and the Maxwell School of Governance, Syracuse University in New York. Sood, known for his hands-on approach, had supervised investigation of high profile cases involving high net-worth individuals and matters having inter-state and international ramifications. The tech-savvy officer had worked for the strengthening of the CCTNS (Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems) and the ICJS (Interoperable Criminal Justice System) in Karnataka along with the judiciary.
Over 200 flights cancelled; 18 airports temporarily closed following Operation Sindoor
NEW DELHI: More than 200 flights have been cancelled and at least 18 airports, including Srinagar, have been temporarily shut for operations amid restrictions in the wake of the armed forces launching missile attacks on terror targets in Pakistan on Wednesday morning. Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, Akasa Air, and a few foreign airlines have cancelled their services to and from various airports. Sources said that at least 18 airports in the northern and western parts of the country have been temporarily shut. These airports include Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Shimla, Dharamshala and Jamnagar, they added. According to one of the sources, more than 200 flights to and from various airports have been cancelled by airlines. IndiGo said it has cancelled more than 165 flights from various domestic airports, including Amritsar and Srinagar, till early morning of May 10 due to airspace restrictions. Air India flights to and from the following stations, Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot, are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 10 May following a notification from aviation authorities on the closure of these airports, the airline said. #6ETravelAdvisory : Following aviation directives, flights to/from these cities remain cancelled until 10 May, 0529 hrs. Please check your flight status here https://t.co/ll3K8PwtRV . For rebooking or refunds, visit https://t.co/51Q3oUe0lP . We are heretosupportyou! pic.twitter.com/sLHHzIZ99w IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) May 7, 2025 In a post on X, the airline also said passengers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations. Due to government notification on airspace restrictions, over 165 IndiGo flights from multiple airports (Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, Leh, Rajkot, and Srinagar) are cancelled until 0529 hrs. IST of 10 May 2025, IndiGo said in a statement. The airline also said that passengers whose flights are affected can reschedule the booking on the next available flight or opt to cancel their bookings at no additional cost, and a full refund will be processed. IndiGo operates around 2,200 flights daily. In an update on X, SpiceJet said airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar are closed until further notice. Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted. The affected passengers can opt for a full refund or an alternate flight as per availability, it added. At least 35 flights to and from the Delhi airport, the country's largest and busiest airport, have been cancelled since 12 am, one of the sources said. The source said that 23 domestic departures and eight arrivals were cancelled. Pakistan closes airspace for 48 hrs after India's Operation Sindoor Besides, four international departures were cancelled. Foreign carriers, including American Airlines, cancelled some of their services from the Delhi airport. Due to notification from the airport authorities, flights to and from Amritsar, Gwalior, Jammu, Srinagar and Hindon are cancelled till 05. 30 hrs on 10th May 2025. Important Travel Update: Due to ongoing situation, our flights to and from Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Kangra, Kandla & Amritsar are cancelled for 7th May25. Please visit our website or log into our mobile app to check your flight status before leaving for airport. #flyspicejet pic.twitter.com/0WyF6PSDw4 SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) May 7, 2025 Akasa Air, in a post on X, said that due to the prevailing situation in the region, all its flights to and from Srinagar have been cancelled. Regional carrier Star Air said its flights to/from Nanded, Hindon, Adampur, Kishangarh and Bhuj stand cancelled for the day. Kindly note, due to changing airspace conditions some flights have been impacted at Delhi Airport, DIAL said in a post on X. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) operates the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). Meanwhile, Qatar Airways, in a post on X, said it has temporarily suspended flights to Pakistan due to Pakistani airspace closure. In retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces, under Operation Sindoor, on early Wednesday, carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke. LIVE | Operation Sindoor: India says 'exercised right to dismantle terror'; NSA Doval briefs global counterparts
Hailstorm and thundershowers lash Himachal, mercury drops sharply
SHIMLA, May 4: Himachal Pradesh witnessed a sharp shift from the ongoing heatwave as widespread thundershowers, hailstorms, and strong winds lashed several parts of the state, disrupting normal life and bringing down temperatures significantly. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), hailstorms and thundershowers affected districts like Shimla, Kangra, Chamba, and Kullu, reducing visibility and causing inconvenience to residents and tourists alike. The State Disaster Management Authority also issued an advisory as gusty winds touched speeds of 50 kmph in [] The post Hailstorm and thundershowers lash Himachal, mercury drops sharply appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Tourists cancel Kashmir bookings, shift to Himachal after Pahalgam attack fallout
CHANDIGARH: Tourists now prefer vacationing in Himachal Pradesh over Jammu and Kashmir after the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 persons were killed. Approximately 15-20% of both domestic and international bookings have shifted from Kashmir to Himachal's popular destinations including Manali, Shimla and Dharamshala; however, the surge in footfall is not as expected as tourists have adopted a 'wait-and-watch' policy amid prevailing uncertainties and hostilities between India and Pakistan. Ashwani Bamba, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Kangra, told TNIE that, after the terror attack, tour operators and potential tourists inquired for booking in Himachal and Uttarakhand and that they expected the surge to be significant. But, actually only 15-20% of tourists shifted from J&K to Himachal and the rest probably prefer to not venture out during this summer season owing to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Thus, the occupancy of hotels across the state at present is around 40% only, the same as last year. Bookings that were shifted were that of tourist groups traveling from Maharashtra, Gujarat and other states, not the immediate bookings in Kashmir which had gotten cancelled, he said. Bamba added that, in Himachal, Manali had the maximum number of shifted bookings at about 20%, while Dharamsala, Dalhousir and Shimla had much fewer. He said that advance bookings had already been made for the IPL matches in Dharamsala. Kashmir tourism stumbles after Pahalgam terror attack, but industry leaders remain hopeful Mohinder Seth, president of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Stakeholders Association, said that tourists are adopting a wait and watch policy due to India-Pakistan tensions. On everyone's mind, there is only one question: What will the Union government do in the coming days? The common is just waiting for that. There were a lot of inquiries after the unfortunate incident as people got diverted from the Kashmir Valley, but the actual number of bookings are very less. In May, generally, there is about 30-40% occupancy across the state, after May 15 we are expecting that it may touch 60-70% as advance bookings are already been done, he said. This tragedy not only upended the tourism sector in Kashmir, but has also impacted the neighboring states of Himachal and Uttarakhand. Ex-President of Manali Hotel Association Mukesh Thakur said that after terror attack there was lot of expectation that the tourist rush will shift to Himachal and lot of queries had also come. But the number of booking which are less as, first, the tourists have to get their booking cancelled and take a refund and then again they will think where to go. Already as predicted that the summers will be hot this year so already there are lot of booking done in advance as far as Manali is concerned. At present around 30-40% occupancy in the hotels here and after May 15 as summer intensifies the occupancy is expected to touch more than 80% as already people have booked. Also is expected that in coming days more online bookings will be done. The tourism industry contributes 7.78 per cent to the GDP of the hill state. As per the Economic Survey report for Himachal Pradesh for 2024-25, the number of domestic visitors increased to 1.8 crore in 2024 from 56.32 lakh in 2021 while the surge in foreign tourists was 83,000 in 2024 from 5000 in 2021. On the other hand the tourism industry contributes 7.2 per cent to the GDP of Jammu and Kashmir.
Punjab tutor held for abducting student; boy rescued from Darjeeling after over a month
HOSHIARPUR: A 13-year-old boy, who was allegedly abducted by his tutor about over a month ago, has been rescued by the police and the kidnapper arrested, officials said on Sunday. Model Town SHO Sub-Inspector Gursahib Singh said the boy, a native of Himachal Pradesh's Kangra, was currently living with his parents in a rented accommodation in Hoshiarpur. Studying in Class 7, the boy used to take tuition from Bhupinder Singh (51), a resident of Dashmesh Nagar, daily between 3 pm and 7.30 pm. According to the police, Bhupinder Singh somehow convinced the boy's parents to allow him to take the child to Shimla for two days. However, after taking the boy with him on March 12, he blocked all contact numbers of the family and prevented the child from speaking to anyone. The boy's parents searched for him on their own for around 18 days, but when they failed to trace the abductor and their child, they lodged an FIR. The FIR was registered at the Model Town Police Station on April 2 under relevant provisions of the law that deal with the punishment for kidnapping or abducting someone with the intent to secretly confine them. A hunt was launched for Bhupinder, who kept changing his location frequently to evade arrest. Eventually, police located him at a hotel in West Bengal's Darjeeling and arrested him two days ago. The boy was safely rescued. The police said the accused had taken the boy close to the Nepal border and there was a strong possibility that he could have crossed over into Nepal with the child. The rescued boy has been produced before the Child Welfare Committee, while the accused was presented before a court, which remanded him in four-day police custody for further interrogation. The police are investigating the motive behind the kidnapping.
Above normal temperatures in Himachal, Una records 40 deg C
Himachal Pradesh is experiencing unusually hot and dry weather. Una recorded a high of 40 degrees Celsius. The weather department forecasts rain in some areas on Sunday. The state has seen a deficit in pre-monsoon rainfall. Keylong was the coldest at night. High temperatures were recorded across several cities including Dhaulakuan, Bilaspur and Kangra.
Heart Attack Patient Dies In Ambulance As Ill-Timed Roadwork Causes Traffic Jam In Himachal
An ambulance carrying a heart attack patient in Kangra, got stuck in traffic, delaying access to Tanda Medical College and resulting in the patient's death
Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh Police have heightened security measures across the state, particularly in border areas and popular tourist destinations. Border districts like Chamba and Kangra are on high alert, with increased surveillance, patrolling, and stricter checks at inter-state borders.
Kashmiri students assaulted, harassed across India after Pahalgam terror attack
SRINAGAR: After the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam , which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a resident, the J&K Students Association has alleged that Kashmiri students in different parts of the country are being harassed, abused and assaulted. We have been receiving multiple distress calls from Kashmiri students from Dehradun. The students feel threatened and insecure in the aftermath of a video released by Hindu Rakhsha Dal, warning Kashmiri Muslim students to vacate Dehradun by 10 am today, J&K Students Association national convenor Nasir Khuehami said. He stated that the situation is becoming increasingly grim and deeply concerning for Kashmiri students studying outside the region. The association has released a set of helpline numbers to support students in distress. We have received distress calls from Universal Group of Institutions, Derabassi, Chandigarh, where Kashmiri students were brutally attacked inside the hostel premises during the night, Khuehami said. He said Kashmiri students said local individuals and other students forcefully entered the hostel at midnight, targeting Kashmiri students with sharp weapons. Their clothes were torn, and at least one student sustained serious injuries. According to Khuehami, it is the 7th incident of Kashmiri students being at the receiving end after the terror attack on tourists in Baisaran, Pahalgam. He also alleged that a Kashmiri student was brutally thrashed in Amity University, Noida. In another incident, the Hindu Raksha Dal and other elements have issued written threats with to several colleges in Dehradun, demanding the expulsion of Kashmiri Muslim students within a set deadline. Pahalgam terror attack: Centre to brief leaders at all-party meet Many terrified Kashmiri students from BFIT College Suduwala Dehradun, have already fled towards Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun to save their lives, Khuehami said. He alleged that in Himachal Pradesh, Kashmiri students in Arni University, Kathghar (Indora) and Kangra have been harassed, abused, and physically attacked. The Kashmiri students are being intimidated, labelled as terrorists and coerced to vacate their accommodation under threats and violence, Khuehami alleged. We have also received distress calls from Kashmiri students and youth studying and working in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Landlords are asking them to vacate immediately, citing security concerns. Some have already left under pressure, he said. Pahalgam attack fallout: India suspends Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, shuts Wagah-Attari border National President of J&K Students Association, Ummar Jamal, said the Association has established a dedicated response team to provide prompt assistance and coordinate with local authorities whenever necessary. The militant attack on tourists at Baisaran, Pahalgam, which is also known as mini Switzerland, has caused massive outrage in the Valley, and for the first time in 35 years of militancy in J&K, Kashmir observed a complete shutdown against civilian killings carried out by militants on Wednesday. Concerned over the incidents, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the J&K government is in touch with the governments of the states where these reports are originating from. Im also in touch with my counterpart, Chief Ministers in these states & have requested they take extra care, he said.
Kangra valley rail stations display artefacts to celebrate their rich history
NEW DELHI, Apr 20: Several railway stations in Himachal Pradeshs Kangra valley, which are nearly 100 years old, have displayed artefacts and archaic types of equipment used in train operations over the years since their inception in 1929. A week-long exhibition from April 14 to 20 was organised to commemorate World Heritage Day on April 18. Stations, such as Kangra, Palampur and Pathankot, held several events and activities to display rare types of equipment like signal lanterns for night-time [] The post Kangra valley rail stations display artefacts to celebrate their rich history appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Thunderstorm, hailstorm batter parts of Himachal Pradesh causing widespread damage
CHANDIGARH: A squall accompanied by heavy rain and hailstorms lashed several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday night, causing widespread damage and power outages were across the state. Shimla remained without electricity for several hours. The weather department has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning in parts of the state on April 18 and 19. Meanwhile, heavy rains also lashed Punjab and Chandigarh. The squall struck Shimla around 11:15 PM plunging the town into darkness, the power supply was restored 10 hours later. The thunderstorm uprooted trees causing damage to vehicles, and blew off the roofs of makeshift houses. In the upper Shimla region, high-velocity winds caused significant damage to apple and stone fruit trees like plum and apricot. In many areas, fruit was knocked off the trees. Apple growers in Jubbal and Rampur reported major losses. The weather office has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Solan, Sirmaur and Kinnaur districts on April 18 and 19. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti districts during this period. On April 20 light to moderate rains are likely at many places and at few places on April 21 and 22 due to fresh Western Disturbance, as a cyclonic circulation lies over the region. There was an appreciable fall in the minimum temperatures. Lahaul and Spitis Keylong was coldest at night with a low of 0.5 degree Celsius. As per MeT, Seobagh in Kullu district recorded the highest rainfall of 28.8 mm, followed by Lahaul-Spitis Kukumseri 23.8 mm, Narkanda 18 mm, Mandi 17.6 mm, Dharamshala 17 mm, Chamba 16 mm, Kalpa 15.6, Kufri 15 mm while the tourist resorts of Kasauli received 14.4 mm rain, Dalhousie 10 mm, Shimla 9.6 mm and Manali 6.8 mm. Heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds, lashed many parts of Punjab and Chandigarh late yesterday night and in the early today morning. As per the MeT Department Chandigarh received 8.3 mm of rain, however, the sky became clear in the morning and residents woke up to sunny weather. While Amritsar received (4.5 mm), Pathankot (3.2 mm), Gurdaspur (18.8 mm) and Rupnagar (6 mm) and in neighboring Haryana, Ambala received a light shower.
Trees Uprooted, Roads Blocked In Shimla As Storm Hits Himachal Pradesh, IMD Issues Orange Alert
Himachal Weather: Yellow and orange alert have been in place for several districts across state including Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, and Lahaul-Spiti.
Yellow alert for heavy rain, snow in Himachal on Friday: IMD
A 'yellow' alert has been issued in Himachal Pradesh for heavy rain and snow, with light rain and snowfall already occurring in some areas. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected in Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts, and heavy snow in Lahaul and Spiti district on Friday. Rain and snow are likely in various regions from March 11 to 17.
IMD issues 'yellow' alert in Himachal, heavy rain likely in 4 districts on Friday
The India Meteorological Department has issued a 'yellow' alert for heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi districts. Thunderstorms and lightning are predicted at isolated places from Monday to Friday. Snowfall is expected in the higher regions, including Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur districts, while police have advised caution near Rohtang due to snowfall near the Atal Tunnel.
Himachal govt in favour of reservation for women: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasised the state governments support for womens reservations at an International Women's Day event in Kangra District. He highlighted various initiatives, including increased reservations for women in police recruitment, amendments to land laws for daughters, and financial support programs for widowed womens children.
IMD Issues Orange Alert for Heavy Rain and Snow in Himachal Today
NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rain and snowfall in some parts of Himachal Pradesh on March 3. Thunderstorms and lightning are also expected in certain areas. Even though the weather was dry on Sunday and temperatures increased, the alert has been issued due to the effects of recent heavy snowfall and rain on February 26, 27, and 28. The warning is mainly for Chamba, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spiti districts. Road Closures and Disruptions Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said that repair work is in full swing, but 365 roads (including 3 national highways) are still blocked. Furthermore, 1,377 power transformers and 269 water supply schemes have been affected. The Revenue Minister also said that some avalanches occurred, but thankfully, there were no casualties or property damage. However, a man named Sant Ram fell into Jodh Nallah near Saach in the tribal Pangi Valley. Local people rescued him and helped him reach Saach. A government helicopter then airlifted him to Kullu, where he was admitted to the hospital. Rainfall and Temperature Update Some areas received light rain: Aghar 17 mm Pachhad 15 mm Jaton Barrage 3.4 mm Kufri 3.2 mm Chamba 2 mm The rest of the state had dry weather, and Una was the hottest place, recording 28.4C, which is 2.3C above normal. The coldest place was Keylong, with a low temperature of -11.8C. Weather Forecast The IMD predicts: March 3 Light to moderate rain or snow in some places. March 4 Moderate rain or snow in many areas. March 5-8 Dry weather expected. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir will also experience different weather patterns over the next seven days, with changes in temperature, humidity, and sky conditions. The IMD advises people to keep track of forecasts for better planning.
NEW DELHI: Heavy rains and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh triggered landslides and caused roadblocks on Saturday, disrupting normal life in the state, as several other parts of north India received showers. In Uttarakhand, 50 workers trapped in an avalanche in the Chamoli district were rescued, but four of them died on Saturday as rescuers raced against time to save the remaining five. The strategic 270-km Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which was shut on Thursday evening following heavy snowfall and multiple landslides in the Ramban district, was reopened for light motor vehicles after the weather improved, and road restoration work was carried out. Parts of Delhi, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh received showers on Saturday. A day after an avalanche buried 55 labourers alive at a BRO camp in Mana village in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, 50 of them were pulled out of the snow, but four of them died. The search is on for the remaining five. The avalanche hit the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp between Mana and Badrinath between 5.30 am and 6 am on Friday, according to the Army. Thirty-three of them were rescued by Friday night. Rain and snowfall hampered the rescue efforts on Friday, and the operation was suspended as the night fell. As the weather cleared up on Saturday morning, the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel based in Mana resumed the rescue operation, District Disaster Management Officer N K Joshi said. Six helicopters, including three of the Indian Army Aviation, two of the IAF and one civil copter hired by the Army, are engaged in the rescue operations, an Army spokesperson said. Located three kilometres from Badrinath, Mana is the last village on the India-Tibet border at a height of 3,200 metres. Uttarakhand avalanche: Four laborers succumb to injuries, five still missing In neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, heavy rains and snowfall disrupted normal life in several parts of the state, triggering landslides, blocking roads and huge mounds of debris swept by gushing waters damaging vehicles in Kullu. A massive landslide triggered by incessant rains and cloudbursts at Rokaru in the Kangra district damaged several vehicles and endangered 12 houses. The affected families have been relocated to safer places, and restoration work is in progress, said Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hem Raj. One person was reported missing near the Shiva Hydropower project in Palampur, and a search operation has been launched to trace him, officials said. Tribal Pangi valley in Chamba was cut off following heavy snowfall, and electricity and telecommunication services have been disrupted. A landslide at Tohlu nullah blocked the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway, leaving tourists stranded. A total of 112 roads were closed in Kullu, and work is in progress to power 1,646 transformers. The Kullu-Manali Road was also closed, and traffic was being diverted via Naggar while the electricity supply was yet to be restored in Manikaran and Manali, officials said. Meanwhile, the state received moderate to heavy snowfall and rain during the past 24 hours. In Jammu and Kashmir, the restoration of the 66-km Banihal-Nashri stretch on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was intensified on Saturday morning after the weather conditions improved. Heavy rains had triggered shooting stones, mudslides and landslides at a dozen places, including Kishtwari Pather, Moum Passi, Hingni, Panthiyal, Mehar and Dalwas, while snowfall between Qazigund and Ramsu left the road slippery. A side of the road near Mehar has caved in, while a major landslide has blocked one tube of the Kunfer-Peerah tunnel. The road repair was hampered by continuous rains on Friday, officials said. Ramban deputy commissioner Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary said there are at least 16 locations along the 66-km road stretch that were rendered vulnerable by the rains. The national capital saw light rain on Saturday morning as the minimum temperature settled at 16.6 degrees Celsius, 4.1 notches above the seasonal average. Delhi recorded 2 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours till 8.30 am on Saturday. Rainfall measurements at various weather stations included 1.8 mm at Safdarjung, 1.0 mm at Palam, and 4 mm at Pitampura. Light to moderate rainfall was recorded in parts of Rajasthan on Saturday, where a maximum of 28 mm rainfall was recorded in Churu, followed by 18 mm in Chirawa (Jhunjhunu), the weather department said.
Heavy rains, snowfall triggers landslides in Himachal, 112 roads blocked in Kullu
Heavy rains and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh caused significant disruption, including landslides and roadblocks, particularly in Kullu, Kangra, and Chamba districts. Several houses and vehicles were damaged, and essential services like electricity and water supply were affected. Efforts are ongoing to clear the debris and restore normalcy.
Heavy Rains, Snowfall Cause Chaos in Himachal, Roads Blocked, Vehicles Swept Away
KULLU - HIMACHAL PRADESH: Heavy rains and snowfall have caused major problems in Himachal Pradesh, leading to landslides and road closures. Many highways and key roads were blocked on Friday, making it difficult for people to travel. For the third day in a row, the state has been experiencing heavy rain and snowfall, affecting normal life. Around 200 roads have been shut down, cutting off areas like Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Shimla from the rest of the state, officials said. Due to the bad weather, all schools and colleges have been closed in Chamba and Manali. However, CBSE board exams will still take place as planned. Authorities have also warned people about possible avalanches in higher regions above 2,300 meters and advised them to stay indoors and take precautions. Many major roads are blocked due to snow. The Hindustan-Tibet road (NH-5) is closed at Narkanda, while roads connecting Dodra-Kwar and Deha-Chopal are also not accessible. The Theog-Hatkoti Highway near Kharapathar village, which is at an altitude of 8,770 feet, has also been shut down. In Kullu, heavy rains have flooded areas like Akhara Bazaar and Gandhi Nagar. Water from overflowing rivers entered the streets, damaging parked vehicles. Authorities have stopped vehicle movement beyond Nehru Kund because of fresh snowfall in places like Solang Nallah, Gulaba, Atal Tunnel, and Rohtang. A landslide at Banala has also blocked the Manali-Kiratpur National Highway, and work to clear it has been delayed due to falling rocks, police said. Many roads in remote valleys remain blocked due to snowfall and continuous rainfall. View this post on Instagram A post shared by News Track Live (@newstracklive) According to weather reports, Kothi received the highest snowfall of 120 cm by 8:30 am, followed by Khadrala (115 cm), Keylong (75 cm), Kalpa (46 cm), Kukumseri (38.8 cm), Sangla (23.5 cm), and both Nichar and Moorang (15 cm each). Lower and mid-hill areas are also facing problems due to heavy rains. Seobagh recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 113.2 mm, followed by Bhuntar (113.2 mm), Banjar (112.4 mm), Jogindernagar (112 mm), Salooni (109.3 mm), Palampur (99 mm), Chamba (97 mm), Baijnath (75 mm), Kangra (74 mm), Rohroo (70 mm), Kufri (59 mm), and Shimla (54.5 mm). The sky remains dark and cloudy, and the meteorological department has issued an orange alert for heavy snowfall in Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher areas of Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts. Light to moderate rain is expected, with heavy rainfall at some isolated places in Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts.
Heavy snowfall disrupts roads, power supply in Himachal Pradesh
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh has been severely impacted by heavy snowfall and widespread rainfall, leading to the closure of more than 200 roads and disruptions in power and water supply. Several areas, particularly in the districts of Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Chamba, have been cut off from the rest of the state. The weather conditions have also forced the closure of educational institutions in Lahaul and Spiti and Chamba districts. Due to heavy snowfall, several key routes, including Darcha-Shinkula, Darcha-Sarchu, Koksar-Manali via Rohtang, Koksar to Losar via Kunzum, and Atal Tunnel to Manali, Tindi, and Udaipur roads, have been blocked. Authorities have advised travelers to avoid these routes for safety reasons. An avalanche alert has been issued, and the general public is urged to refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. The police in Lahaul and Spiti stated, The general public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel and refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. In the Dodra-Kwar region of Shimla district, heavy snowfall continues, shutting down all roads leading to the valley. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange warning for Lahaul and Spiti, Chamba, Kinnaur, and areas above 2,300 meters, warning of an increased risk of avalanches in higher-altitude regions. The precipitation is expected to continue with the same intensity throughout the day. Meanwhile, panic spread among residents of Manikaran Valley in the Kullu district following the formation of an artificial lake in Jeera Nallah in Tosh village, which has created a flash flood threat. Authorities have evacuated people living downstream to safer locations. The state also remains on high alert for avalanches following fresh snowfall in the region. In Shimla district, 12 roads have been closed due to the harsh weather. The Hindustan-Tibet Road (National Highway 5) has been shut down near Narkanda due to slippery conditions caused by heavy snowfall. As a result, traffic has been diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri and Sunni. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for light to moderate snowfall at most places, with isolated spells of very heavy snowfall expected in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti, as well as in the higher reaches of Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Kangra, and Manali. Since last night, continuous rainfall has been recorded in Shimla. A yellow alert has been issued for more rain and light snowfall in the city and surrounding areas. However, educational institutions in the state capital have remained open. Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti recorded the lowest temperature at night, dropping to minus 4.5 degrees Celsius, while Nahan was the warmest during the day with a high of 23.2 degrees Celsius.
Orange warning issued for heavy snow, rains in parts of Himachal Pradesh
Light to moderate snow continues in isolated areas of higher Himachal Pradesh, with intermittent rains in the middle and low hills. An orange warning has been issued for heavy snow and rain on Thursday and Friday in several districts, including Mandi and Kangra.
Heavy snowfall cuts off Lahaul Valley, Manali-Leh Highway closed
CHANDIGARH: The Manali-Leh Highway has been closed for vehicular traffic following heavy snowfall in higher areas of several districts in Himachal Pradesh, cutting off Lahaul Valley from the rest of the state and leaving both locals and tourists stranded. With snow accumulation reaching up to 60 cm on the road connecting the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel to Keylong-Jispa, the route has become impassable. The tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti is experiencing severe weather conditions. In response, the Lahaul-Spiti police have issued a travel advisory urging all travellers to avoid the Manali-Leh route until further notice. The closure has significantly impacted transportation, halting vehicular movement on the affected stretch. Road users have been advised to remain patient and stay updated through official channels regarding road conditions and weather. Tourists planning to travel in or out of the area have been urged to adjust their plans accordingly. Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul-Spiti, Rahul Kumar, stated that efforts to restore road connectivity would begin as soon as weather conditions improve. The Border Roads Organisation and the PWD are on standby and will deploy their workforce and machinery to clear key roads once the weather permits, he said. Kumar also cautioned people against unnecessary travel, particularly into high-altitude areas prone to snow avalanches. Following heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Manali, roads beyond Nehru Kund have been closed to most vehicles. Additionally, National Highway 5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road) has been shut at Narkanda due to snow, with traffic now being diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri. Since Wednesday night, Shilaroo recorded 5 cm of snowfall, followed by Gondla with 3 cm, Kalpa 1.3 cm, and Sangla 0.3 cm. The upper areas of Manali, Narkanda, Rohru, Chansal, and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti also witnessed snowfall. Several areas across the state received light to moderate rainfall, with Dalhousie recording the highest at 22 mm, followed by Sundernagar with 21 mm, Bharmour 18.2 mm, Dharamshala 16.8 mm, Manali 16 mm, Mandi and Kangra 14.4 mm each, Bhuntar 13.6 mm, Bilaspur 13 mm, and Una 10 mm. The state capital, Shimla, was lashed by thunderstorms and received mild rainfall. The Met Office has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms in the districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi on Thursday. It also warned that a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from 24 February onwards. The state has recorded an average rainfall of 33 mm during the winter season from 1 January to 20 February, significantly below the normal of 154 mma deficit of 79 per cent.
IIT study: 40% of Himachal at high risk of landslides, floods & avalanches
CHANDIGARH: Forty-nine per cent of Himachal Pradesh is prone to medium-risk and 40% to high-risk landslides, floods and avalanches, according to a recent study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Ropar. The conclusions were presented at the Indian Cryosphere Meet (ICM) held at the IIT-Bombay last week, attended by 80 glaciologists, researchers, scientists, and other experts from around the world. The IIT is now conducting similar studies in the Northeast, J&K and Uttarakhand, adding another criterion to examine GOLF (Glacier Lake Out Burst Flood). MTech scholar Daishisha Lawphniaw conducted the study under the guidance of Reet Kamal Tiwari from IIT-Ropar, using GIS-based mapping, the study classified hazard-prone regions. Tiwari told this newspaper, The states upper reaches are more prone to avalanches, whereas the middle and lower parts of the state are more prone to flood and landslides. The study stated that high-altitude areas in Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti districts are highly prone to avalanches, while Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Chamba districts are prone to flood and landslides. The study highlights that steep mountain slopes and elevations above 3,000 meters are at the highest risk. Higher-altitude regions with slopes between 16.8 degrees and 41.5 degrees are more likely to experience both avalanches and landslides. Areas with mean slopes ranging from 5.9 degrees to 16.44 degrees and mean elevations up to 1600 meters are predominantly prone to both landslides and floods, whereas the combined occurrence of avalanches and landslides is most likely in regions with slopes of 16.86 degrees to 41.54 degrees at higher elevations, states the study. The study highlights importance of knowledge about the cascading effects of disasters. Hill tale 49% prone to medium-risk High-altitude areas in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti highly prone to avalanches Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Chamba prone to flood and landslides Steep mountain slopes and elevations above 3,000 metres at highest risk Higher-altitude regions with slopes between 16.8 degrees and 41.5 degrees more likely to experience both avalanches and landslides Areas with mean slopes and elevations predominantly prone to both landslides and floods
Took loan to send him abroad: Family of lone Himachal deportee
Rohit, the lone deportee from Himachal Pradesh, returned to his village in Kangra district after being sent back from the US. His family had borrowed Rs 45 lakh to send him abroad for a better future, but his journey ended in deportation due to illegal immigration. Rohit's mother, devastated by the debt, faced further distress after fraud by an agent who swindled money during his journey from India to the US via Mexico.
Jammu Athletes shine at Kangra Ultra Run
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 15: Athletes from Jammu made a significant impact at the first edition of the Kangra Ultra Run, organized by Big Foot Adventures India. Set against the picturesque yet challenging terrain of Kangra, the event attracted runners from all across the country. In the 25KM category, Jammu athletes delivered exceptional performances, securing podium finishes. Irfan Hafiz clinched 2nd place in the Male category, while Dr. Palak Malhi triumphed with a 1st place finish in the Female [] The post Jammu Athletes shine at Kangra Ultra Run appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Expansion Of Railways, Airports, Employment Opportunities: Himachal's Expectation From Union Budget
Shepherds and weavers in Baijnath, Kangra, seek more funds for rural employment and support for local cooperative societies.
