Shimla, July 4
The district administrations remains on high alert as relentless heavy rains put life out of gear in Himachal Pradesh, causing significant disruptions. Reports arriving that a landslide near Maseran Galu has blocked the Sarkaghat-Maseran road, inconveniencing local residents and travelers.
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rains on Thursday and Friday, with a yellow alert for heavy rains from July 6th to 10th. The adverse weather has already severely impacted Shimla and its surrounding areas. From Wednesday night to Thursday morning, heavy rains brought debris to Shimla’s Vikasnagar, affecting vehicle movement. A fallen tree near Himland added to the chaos. Additionally, debris on the Shimla-Chakkar-Bilaspur road halted traffic, though the road has since been cleared.
Also read:Himachal Pradesh braces for intense monsoon activity as IMD issues orange alert
Rain resumed in Shimla on Thursday afternoon, exacerbating the issues. The minimum temperatures recorded across the state include Shimla at 17.0°C, Sundernagar 21.3°C, Bhuntar 22.4°C, and other regions experiencing similar conditions.
The early monsoon rains, ranging from light to moderate, have exposed the state government’s lack of preparation for flash floods and landslides. Over the past 24 hours, approximately 119 roads, including national highways, have been blocked. Reports from Mandi and Kullu indicate that infrastructure, including newly built four-lane highways, could not withstand the initial monsoon spell. In Pandoh, in Mandi district a recently constructed four-lane wall is showing significant damage, and long fissures are evident on the highway. NH 88 was closed for four hours at Chakkar due to debris from private construction washing onto the road, though it has been cleared now.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain at isolated places for today. Residents and travelers are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions.
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