Red Alert Sounded Downstream of Kol Dam; Schools Closed in Sundernagar as Rains Worsen

Authorities in Himachal Pradesh have issued a red alert downstream of the Kol Dam on the Satluj River, warning residents of a potential rise in water levels as incessant monsoon rains continue to batter the state. The Shimla and Mandi district administrations have cautioned that water gates of the dam may be opened on Tuesday if heavy rainfall persists in upstream catchment areas. Two advisories have been issued to alert residents, government officials, and school managements in vulnerable areas.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to extremely heavy rainfall for parts of Mandi, Shimla, Chamba, and Kangra districts. To avoid any untoward incidents, SDM Sundernagar Amar Negi has ordered the closure of all winter-closing schools in Tehsil Nihri on July 22. Staff, however, have been directed to remain present on working days. Schools in parts of Karsog have also been instructed to remain shut as a precautionary measure.

The past 24 hours have seen heavy rainfall triggering landslides, flash floods, and uprooting of trees. Across Himachal Pradesh, 398 roads—including three national highways—remain blocked, while 682 electricity transformers and 151 drinking water schemes have been disrupted. The monsoon toll has risen to 132 deaths, with 34 people missing. In the last 24 hours alone, three fatalities have been reported: a newlywed couple in Chamba and a young man in Mandi were swept away by swollen rivulets.

The damage to property has crossed Rs 1,246 crore, with 393 houses destroyed and more than 700 partially damaged. The IMD has issued an orange alert for Chamba and Kangra districts, while a yellow alert remains for Una, Mandi, and Sirmaur. Weather in other districts is expected to remain partly cloudy, with another yellow alert for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Sirmaur tomorrow.

Officials have urged people living along the Satluj River and its tributaries to remain vigilant and avoid approaching riverbanks. The possibility of sudden water release from the Kol Dam poses an additional threat of flash flooding in downstream areas.