Relentless Rain Triggers Landslides and Tragedy in Himachal Pradesh: Rescue Operations Ongoing

Heavy and continuous rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has unleashed chaos across the region, with landslides becoming a frequent and deadly occurrence. Early this morning, a major landslide struck Akhara Bazaar in Kullu, severely damaging two houses. Tragically, one person has lost their life, and six others—including a woman—are feared trapped under the debris.

Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police have managed to save three people so far, who are currently receiving treatment in the hospital. However, the situation remains dire as efforts continue to locate and rescue the remaining six trapped individuals. Authorities are using both manual and mechanical methods to carefully approach the debris, hoping to save as many lives as possible.

Kullu’s District Commissioner reported that the saturation of soil due to relentless rainfall has made the hills dangerously unstable, leading to repeated landslides, especially in areas near rivers and streams. The administration has issued evacuation orders for all identified high-risk zones and is urging residents to cooperate fully with safety protocols. Relief camps have been set up, and people are encouraged to prioritize their safety and seek shelter if they notice any signs of danger in their surroundings.

The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts, including Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Solan. The impact has been devastating: five national highways and over 1,350 roads are currently closed due to landslides and flooding. This monsoon season has seen 46% more rainfall than average, with 921.4 mm recorded compared to the usual 632 mm between June 1 and September 2.

As the mountains continue to bear the brunt of this extreme weather, landslides and cloudbursts remain a constant threat. Authorities and media outlets are appealing to the public to stay away from dangerous areas and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.

For ongoing updates and safety information, stay tuned to reliable news sources and follow instructions from local authorities. Your safety is paramount—do not take unnecessary risks during this challenging time.

Stay safe, stay informed.