Mandi Landslides Block Kiratpur Manali Highway And Route
Continuous heavy rainfall triggered massive landslides near Mandi on Sunday, blocking the Kiratpur–Manali highway and paralysing traffic movement between Mandi and Kullu. The disruption has stranded hundreds of vehicles, with no operational detour available after the alternative Kataula route was also rendered impassable.
Officials confirmed that debris from collapsing hill slopes has covered the road at multiple points near the ropeway and Jognimata temple. The blockage has left buses, taxis, and goods carriers stuck on both ends of the route. Emergency earthmovers have been deployed to clear the highway, but officials warned that reopening could take several hours depending on weather conditions.
The region has witnessed incessant rainfall since early morning, significantly loosening soil on fragile slopes. Experts from the highway authority noted that repeated incidents highlight the growing vulnerability of Himalayan road infrastructure to extreme weather events. Such events are increasing in frequency due to shifting rainfall patterns linked to climate change, they added. With the Kataula–Kanauj link also blocked, residents and travellers face complete disconnection between Mandi and Kullu. The double closure has amplified congestion and created long queues of stationary vehicles. Many passengers have been forced to wait roadside without access to basic facilities in harsh conditions. Emergency services are attempting to reach vulnerable groups, including children and elderly commuters.
Police have issued an advisory urging citizens to avoid travel on this stretch until clearance operations are complete. “The situation is being closely monitored and safety remains our priority,” an officer stated. The incident underscores the pressing need for sustainable and climate-resilient transport infrastructure in hilly states. Road networks in fragile mountain ecosystems are often built by cutting steep slopes, which weakens natural stability. Experts emphasise that future planning must integrate eco-friendly engineering solutions, slope stabilisation measures, and stronger drainage systems to withstand heavier downpours.
Beyond immediate disruption, highway blockages carry economic consequences for local communities. The Kiratpur–Manali highway is a crucial trade and tourism corridor, connecting the Kullu valley with markets across northern India. Extended closures directly impact livelihood chains, from goods carriers to hospitality establishments, reinforcing the urgency of resilient infrastructure investment. Officials assured that debris clearance is underway with heavy machinery working continuously. Restoration of connectivity is expected soon, though further rainfall could delay progress. For now, authorities have appealed to commuters to remain patient and prioritise safety over unnecessary travel.
