Himachal Pradesh is grappling with severe weather conditions as heavy rain and snowfall persist across the region, triggering landslides, flooding, and widespread disruption. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts indicating continuing adverse weather, which has resulted in dangerous conditions for residents and travelers alike.
Over the past few days, rain and snow have significantly affected life throughout the state. According to reports from local authorities, connectivity has been severely impeded as roads become inundated and blocked. A major incident occurred near Banala, Mandi district, where landslides have cut off access to Kullu, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. Reports indicate substantial vehicle damage and disruptions due to the weather-related conditions.
A private bus traveling from Manali to Pathankot overturned after being struck by falling boulders, injuring four passengers including the driver and the bus's conduit. The victims were swiftly transported to the community health center in Nagwain for medical attention. Local police and administration immediately began relief efforts at the accident site to clear debris and assist those affected.
Flooding has been particularly severe around Kullu, where areas such as Akhada Bazaar and Gandhi Nagar have experienced significant inundation, damaging many parked vehicles. Flood conditions prompted the Mandi district administration to open the floodgates of the Pandoh reservoir, ensuring safety from potential overflow.
Officials have advised residents to remain vigilant, especially as the region anticipates more rainfall. With forecasts predicting additional heavy rain and snow, many regions within Mandi, Kangra, Kullu, and Chamba districts are under orange alert for extreme weather. These warnings suggest residents should prepare for potential evacuations as conditions might worsen.
The rainfall during this period has already reached alarming levels, adding to the distress of local farmers, as crops such as vegetables and wheat have been devastated due to extensive waterlogging. Agricultural productivity is critically threatened, exacerbated by the destruction of standing crops.
Snowfall has also impacted many higher-altitude regions within the state, causing treacherous travel conditions. Keylong, located within Lahaul-Spiti, reported more than 20 centimeters of new snowfall, contributing to hazardous conditions along local highways. Reports indicate around 200 roads are closed, isolatin the populations of rural communities throughout Kullu, Lahaul, Spiti, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Shimla districts.
While the continuous snowfall has resulted in picturesque winter scenes, it has also increased the risk of avalanches. The meteorological department has raised alerts concerning potential avalanche conditions at elevations exceeding 2,300 meters. Communities are encouraged to limit outdoor activities during these threats.
Travelers have faced significant delays, particularly on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway, where landslide debris has blocked the route. Relief operations are complicated by continuous rainfall, impeding visibility and road clearance efforts. Despite the directive to avoid travel on hazardous roads, many were found attempting to cross, risking their safety.
Heavy rains have also swelled local rivers, including the Beas and Uhal, leading authorities to warn communities near riverbanks to take precautions. The rising levels have led to temporary halts at hydroelectric plants, impacting power supply across affected regions.
Throughout the state, routine activities have been placed on pause. Schools and colleges have been closed in regions like Chamba and Manali due to safety concerns, though some exam protocols such as the CBSE board exams proceeded as scheduled, raising questions about student safety.
Local meteorological officials have noted the significant rainfall deficit across the state, with overall precipitation from January 1 to February 27 being only 70.4 mm, marking 61% less than the norm. This unusual weather pattern has heightened concerns, with calls for proactive measures from residents to mitigate risks posed by the unpredictable climate.
The situation remains dynamic, with authorities urging continued vigilance as they navigate the challenges posed by these adverse weather conditions. Residents are reminded to stay informed through local advisories and heed guidelines from meteorological agencies.
Efforts to manage this weather crisis are led by local emergency response teams who are addressing immediate needs and planning for longer-term recovery and resilience as they face this challenging tableau of natural disaster.