Himachal Monsoon: The monsoon has intensified in Himachal Pradesh with heavy rainfall triggering landslides, waterlogging, and flood-like conditions across several districts. The relentless rainfall has claimed lives, disrupted transportation, and raised concerns over further damage as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts more rain over the next 24 hours.
Landslides have been reported from several locations in Shimla, Sirmaur, and Kullu districts, severely affecting daily life. Around 210 roads remain blocked across the state, with restoration work underway to clear debris and restore connectivity.
The IMD's Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall on Sunday for Kangra, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, and Sirmaur districts.
Snowfall in hilly areas
Along with heavy rainfall, light snowfall was recorded on Saturday at the high-altitude passes of Rohtang, Shinkula, and Baralacha. Meanwhile, rain continued in Shimla and several other parts of the state. Amid days of incessant rainfall, a building in Ramnagar, Shimla, collapsed completely. Although the structure had already been evacuated, no casualties were reported.
Landslides and Debris Cause Widespread Disruptions
In Razana village, two parked vehicles were buried under debris after a landslide. In Sanjauli, the collapse of a retaining wall overnight sent debris crashing onto five buildings. Officials have stepped up monitoring in vulnerable areas and are keeping a close watch on the situation.
In Kullu district, continuous landslides have once again disrupted traffic on the Manikaran–Barshaini road near Ghatigad. The same stretch remained closed for several days during last year's monsoon season. Authorities have advised people to avoid non-essential travel, monitor weather updates, and stay away from rivers and streams due to the heightened risk of flash floods.
Fresh Landslides Hit Shimla
Heavy rainfall continued to trigger fresh landslides in Shimla on Sunday. Near the lift area, debris and a large uprooted tree slid onto the road during ongoing road widening and construction work, completely blocking the Circular Road and causing long traffic jams on both sides.
Another landslide near Rajiv Bhawan disrupted traffic on the Sabzi Mandi Road, leaving several vehicles stranded.
Officials said excavation work was in progress on the hillside when a portion of the slope suddenly gave way, sending large quantities of debris onto the road. The uprooted tree further obstructed the route, forcing authorities to suspend traffic until the debris could be removed.
Himachal Weather Forecast for Next 24 Hours
The India Meteorological Department has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall at isolated places across Himachal Pradesh over the next 24 hours. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds are also likely to affect several districts.
According to the IMD, isolated heavy rainfall is very likely in parts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts, while light to moderate rainfall is expected at many places across the state's low hills, plains, and mid-hill regions. Light rainfall is also likely at isolated locations in the higher reaches.