Flash Floods and Landslides Wreak Havoc Across Himachal Pradesh

Strategic Insights -

Heavy rainfall and resultant flash floods and landslides have crippled the state of Himachal Pradesh, with over 600 roads, including four highways, blocked throughout the state. The disruptions have caused widespread difficulties, including power and water shortages, and have severely impacted the transportation of goods and people. The situation is particularly dire for farmers and traders in the Lahaul-Spiti region, where the disruption of the highway has resulted in huge losses due to the peak vegetable season.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 600 roads, including four highways, were blocked throughout the state due to flash floods and landslides.
  • Heavy rainfall has caused widespread disruptions, including power and water shortages.
  • The highway connecting Chandigarh to Manali remained blocked at multiple spots, including Raison, Dohlunalla, and 14 Mile.
  • The road from Koksar in Lahaul-Spiti to Palchan near Manali via the Rohtang Pass was open, but the Aut-to-Jalori Jot stretch of NH 305 remained blocked due to a landslide.
  • The Chandigarh-Manali highway was blocked between Pandoh and Aut at multiple spots in Mandi district.
  • A total of 662 roads remained blocked in the state, according to the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC).
  • The Meteorological Centre, Shimla, recorded an average of 440.8 mm of rainfall between August 1 and 31, which was 72% higher than the normal of 256.8 mm.
  • Red and orange alerts for heavy rainfall have been issued for Himachal Pradesh on September 1 and 2.
  • Educational institutions, including schools and colleges, will remain closed in Kullu, Kangra, Bilaspur, Solan, Sirmaur, and Shimla districts on September 1 and 2 due to the heavy rainfall alert.

Statistics:

  • 662 roads remained blocked in the state on Sunday, according to the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC).
  • The average rainfall recorded between August 1 and 31 was 440.8 mm, which is 72% higher than the normal of 256.8 mm.
  • Una district recorded the highest rainfall of 823.6 mm, followed by Kangra with 816.2 mm, and Mandi with 681.5 mm.
  • The Met has issued red and orange alerts for heavy rainfall in the state on September 1 and 2.

Sources:

  • The Times of India (Kullu)
  • Meteorological Centre, Shimla
  • State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC)