Rain deluge triggers massive landslides in Himachal Pradesh, 60 families affected in Bali Chowki
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source Internet
Shimla, Aug 22,
Continuous rains have unleashed devastation across Himachal Pradesh, with massive landslides in Bali Chowki of Mandi district leaving around 60 families homeless and local markets crippled. Cracks have appeared in residential houses and shops between Thachi Chowk and Zero Chowk Bus Stand after a slope below Dalip Singh’s house in Sharash village gave way. Nearly 13 buildings have been severely impacted, nine of which are being evacuated, affecting 40 shopkeepers.
The collapse has destroyed all three approach roads connecting Bali Chowki to Sharash, Khalao, and Rahi, cutting off movement. Children are unable to reach schools, while locals fear more houses may sink as the one-kilometer slope continues to slide. Residents recall that in 2023, six buildings had already been destroyed near Nag Temple in a similar incident. In Bela Naal village, the ground has been collapsing continuously for five days, forcing the evacuation of 19 houses.
Statewide, the impact of monsoon rains has been grim. According to the State Emergency Operations Centre, 346 roads, 281 power transformers, and 145 water supply schemes remain disrupted due to incessant downpours and landslides. The cumulative monsoon loss in the state has already crossed Rs 2,28,000 lakh (₹2,282 crore), with 287 human lives lost and 346 animal deaths reported since June. Mandi alone has recorded 48 deaths and massive property loss.
Guman Singh of Himalaya Niti Abhiyan stressed the urgency of a geological study of the collapsing slopes in Bali Chowki. “The mountain here is steep, raw, and filled with dust. Without scientific assessment and preventive measures, the disaster will keep repeating. Immediate relief and long-term resettlement of affected families are essential,” he said.
Authorities are engaged in evacuation and relief efforts, but with national highways and rural roads blocked, accessibility remains a major hurdle. The government has urged people in vulnerable slopes to stay alert as the rain threat continues.
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