Nahan, Aug 4
Torrential rain lashed Sirmaur district on Tuesday, inundating a stretch of National Highway-907A linking Nahan with Kumharhatti and Shimla, disrupting traffic for more than two hours and exposing serious shortcomings in the area’s drainage infrastructure.
The highway stretch from ITI to Carmel School, including the interlock-tiled turn, was submerged under fast-flowing rainwater, resembling a river. The strong current swept away several scooters and motorcycles, while water entered parked and moving cars. Rainwater also flooded nearby houses, causing damage to household belongings.
Local businessman and social worker Vinod Sharma attributed the flooding to an inadequate and poorly maintained drainage system. He said only a narrow drain had been constructed between the Block Development Officer’s office and the interlock-tiled turn, which became clogged with garbage during the heavy rain.
He further alleged that small pipes had been installed at places where proper culverts were required for carrying stormwater, making the drainage system incapable of handling heavy runoff. As a result, large volumes of rainwater flowed directly onto the highway, leading to severe waterlogging.
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The force of the water was so intense that many residents compared it to the aftermath of a cloudburst. Several motorists were stranded on the flooded road until the water level receded, causing major inconvenience to commuters.
Residents have urged the district administration and the National Highways Authority to develop a permanent and scientifically designed drainage system from the Block Development Officer’s office to Sasdu’s stepwell to prevent similar incidents during future monsoon spells.
According to district authorities, four roads in Sirmaur remained closed due to the rain, while traffic on National Highway-907A was also affected by landslides at several locations.
The incident has once again raised concerns over the adequacy of urban stormwater drainage in Nahan, with residents demanding immediate corrective measures to prevent recurring flooding and damage during the monsoon season.
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