Heavy rainfall over the last 24 hours caused a significant landslide in Himachal Pradesh, isolating the remote Pangi Valley from the rest of the state. The disaster struck along the Sansari–Kullu–Manali road, at the border of Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti districts, where around 60 metres of roadway disappeared, leaving the region inaccessible.
Approximately 40 to 50 individuals in private vehicles and taxis found themselves stranded at locations such as Sugalwas and Kadu Nullah. Many of these individuals spent the night exposed to harsh, cold conditions.
Eyewitness accounts describe the landslide’s severity:
- The entire hillside collapsed.
- No trace of the road remains.
- Movement becomes impossible, even on foot.
In response to the crisis, local authorities have initiated the process of relocating several stranded individuals to safer locations.
Restoration Work Underway
The Border Roads Organisation has commenced operations to restore connectivity to the cut-off Pangi Valley. Efforts focus on restoring the damaged 60-metre stretch of road and ensuring a safe return for those affected.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has issued multiple weather alerts due to ongoing adverse conditions:
- Orange Alert: Hailstorms, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds (40–60 km/h) expected in Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Solan districts.
- Yellow Alert: Similar conditions will affect Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba, and Sirmaur.
A prolonged wet spell is expected to last until April 13, raising concerns for the recovery efforts in the region.
Widespread rainfall across Himachal has resulted in diverse weather impacts, with Sarahan receiving the highest precipitation at 38.5 mm. Alarmingly, reports indicate hailstorms have damaged crops in parts of Shimla district, while snowfall is likely in higher altitude areas.
As cold conditions intensify throughout the state, Kalpa and Kukumseri recorded nighttime lows of 0.4°C. Day temperatures remain significantly below normal averages, varying between 3–9°C across several regions.
The ongoing wet conditions connect to a Western Disturbance, with another system poised to impact the region starting April 11.
Advisory for Residents
Authorities strongly advise residents and travelers to remain vigilant, avoid traveling through landslide-prone areas, and adhere to official weather advisories to ensure safety.
