Police flag ‘Threat zones’ in Lahaul & Spiti after multiple Tourist drownings

Shimla, June 10,

In response to a rising trend of hazardous tourist behaviour, the Lahaul & Spiti District Police has issued a stern advisory warning visitors against venturing into high-risk water bodies in the region. The advisory, released on June 10, flags a noticeable increase in life-threatening activities, including bathing in rivers, filming close to deep water areas, and exploring remote lakes without adequate awareness of the dangers or connectivity issues.

Authorities have expressed concern over repeated incidents where tourists, often in search of adventure or compelling content for social media, ignore the risks posed by the region’s fast-flowing rivers, sudden weather changes, and unpredictable water surges. The police noted that several fatalities have occurred over the years at specific locations now identified as drowning-prone, prompting a formal categorization of these areas into clearly demarcated danger zones.

Prominent among these are the riverbanks near Jispa, Suraj Taal, Deepak Taal, and Chander Taal, as well as Mini Manali near Udaipur, and the confluence at Tandi Sangam, where the Chandra and Bhaga rivers meet. Other marked spots include Yangla Snow Point near Mandi, the Sissu Helipad area—which has witnessed two reported drownings—along with Pagal Nallah and Kokser Nallah, each having claimed a life. Dimpuk Nallah, the Sissu riverside area, and streams such as Kuthbihal, Teling Nallah, and Mooling are also featured on the district’s threat-level map, now color-coded based on the number of past casualties. Areas with the highest fatality record have been marked in red, with orange and yellow indicating moderate and low levels of risk, respectively.

District officials have clarified that any attempt to access these marked areas for photography or leisure purposes is strictly forbidden. They emphasized that the natural beauty of Lahaul & Spiti, though captivating, conceals hidden perils, especially in its waterways where a sudden glacier melt or rainfall-triggered surge can turn fatal within minutes—even for seasoned trekkers and adventurers.

Appealing to all visitors, a district police spokesperson stressed the importance of adhering to safety norms and avoiding solo explorations in unmonitored regions. The advisory concludes with a clear message aimed at encouraging mindful travel: enjoy the magnificence of nature, but do not challenge it. Responsible tourism is not just a guideline—it is a necessity in these fragile and unforgiving landscapes.

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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.

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Himachalscape bureau

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.