Devastating monsoon rain submerge villages in Himachal Pradesh’s Balh Valley, prompts School closures and highways Suspension
Shimla, Aug 13
The rising water levels in Suketi Khud have wreaked havoc in the Balh valley of Mandi district, submerging numerous villages and businesses as a result of the relentless heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours. Joginder Walia, the Vice President of the Himachal Kisan Sabha, expressed deep concern regarding the absence of relief and rescue operations conducted by the government and administration during this critical time. The floodwaters have severely affected villages such as Bhangrotu-Nerchok, Dador Kansachonk, Dawan, Sihanh, Chandyal, Behna, Gutkar, and Nagchala, leading to substantial losses for the local population.
Blame has been placed on the deteriorated drainage systems due to the construction of the Fourlane, which has allowed floodwaters to enter shops and houses. In a grim parallel, Joginder Walia highlighted that this is the first significant flood event experienced by Suketi Khud since the devastating incident of 1961. During that time, the Khud had also inundated numerous villages and led to the displacement of hundreds of people and cattle. The aftermath of the 1962 flood had prompted the State Government to raise the road level from Dardor to Nerchok and relocate people to higher areas to mitigate future flood risks.
On the other hand in response to the current situation, Deputy Commissioner Solan Manmohan Sharma took action by announcing the suspension of heavy vehicle movement along National Highway 05. This decision was spurred by intermittent blockages caused by mudslides, rockslides, and observed cracks on the road, particularly at the Chakki Mod point. The priority was to ensure the safety of the general public and facilitate the ongoing restoration work to restore alternative traffic movement.
Additionally, due to the unrelenting and heavy rainfall, the Government of Himachal Pradesh has decided to close schools on August 14, 2023. This proactive step aims to safeguard students and staff from the inclement weather conditions and the resulting poor connectivity issues. The closure extends to all government Primary, Middle, Higher, and Senior Secondary Schools affiliated with the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE), as well as private schools affiliated with CBSE, ICSE, or any other education board in the state.
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