Rain-triggered landslides disrupt life across Himachal, highways blocked
Shimla, Apr 11,
Despite largely clear weather on Friday, multiple landslides triggered by recent rainfall disrupted normal life across Himachal Pradesh, blocking key roads and raising fresh concerns over infrastructure vulnerability in the hill state.
A major landslide occurred on the Kalka–Shimla National Highway (NH-5) near the Sanwara toll plaza around 6 pm, halting vehicular movement for several hours. Authorities allowed traffic to pass through a single lane after partial clearance, leading to long queues and delays for commuters.
In Shimla town, the Boileauganj–Summerhill road was blocked midway, above the Shiv Bawari site — the location of a tragic landslide during the 2023 monsoon that claimed 20 lives. Notably, a breast wall along the recently constructed stretch caved in following the recent spell of rainfall. The incident has exposed the slope and sparked questions regarding the quality and durability of construction works in landslide-prone zones.
Reports of another significant landslide emerged from near Salapar in Bilaspur district, where the Shimla–Mator highway was blocked, disrupting connectivity between districts and affecting the movement of essential goods and services.
Rainfall data from various parts of the state indicates moderate precipitation in the preceding hours, which likely destabilized slopes. Kasol recorded 11 mm of rainfall, followed by Guler and Jot at 10.6 mm each, Kangra 9.6 mm, Kataula 9 mm, Khadrala and Rohru 6.4 mm each, Mandi 5.4 mm, Dharamshala 5.2 mm, and Chaupal 4 mm. Baggi and Saharan recorded 4 mm and 3 mm respectively.
The incidents underline the fragile geology of the region and the recurring risks posed by even moderate rainfall. Authorities have urged commuters to exercise caution while traveling and said restoration work is underway at affected sites.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
