Himachal Pradesh continues to grapple with severe disruptions as heavy monsoon rains have blocked 557 roads across the state, including three national highways, officials said. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) reported that ongoing landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts have inflicted significant damage to infrastructure, power networks, and water supply systems.
The affected national highways NH-03, NH-05, and NH-305 are witnessing major blockages at multiple points, including Nathpa, Nigulsari, and Pagal Nalla in Kinnaur, along with stretches in Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti. Key districts such as Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra are experiencing extensive road and utility disruptions, with 189, 651, and 40 distribution transformers, respectively, out of service. In addition, water supply schemes in Mandi (72), Shimla (52), and Kullu (35) are severely impacted.The cumulative monsoon death toll in Himachal Pradesh since June 20 has reached 317, with 164 fatalities linked to rain-induced incidents, including landslides, flash floods, electrocution, and drowning, while 153 deaths were reported in road accidents. Officials emphasised that restoration work on blocked roads is challenging due to continuous rainfall and recurring landslides in the hilly terrain.
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Authorities are prioritising clearing debris, restoring electricity, and resuming drinking water supply. Emergency response teams have been mobilised to monitor risk zones and ensure public safety. Officials highlighted that road widening and repair projects are temporarily halted until weather conditions stabilise.The ongoing Manimahesh Yatra in Chamba district, a pilgrimage attracting thousands of devotees annually between Janmashtami and Radha Ashtami, has been temporarily suspended. Officials cited multiple landslides, waterlogging, and safety concerns along the route from Chamba to Bharmour. The high-altitude pilgrimage involves ritual baths at the Manimahesh Lake, situated at 13,000 feet at the base of the Kailash peak.
Authorities have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution, avoid non-essential travel, and follow SDMA advisories. Efforts to coordinate with local administrations aim to expedite relief measures while minimising further risks. Experts note that such extreme weather events underscore the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure, improved drainage systems, and climate-resilient urban planning in hilly regions. The state government is expected to assess long-term mitigation strategies to reduce the vulnerability of critical roads and utility networks to recurring monsoon impacts.
