Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh have disrupted normal life across the state, prompting the closure of schools and colleges in eight districts and causing the shutdown of 685 roads, including three national highways. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert in Kangra and Chamba districts on Monday, warning citizens to exercise caution as intense rainfall is expected at isolated locations.
IMD Issues Alerts Across the State
The IMD has issued an orange warning for heavy to very heavy rain in isolated areas on Monday and a yellow alert for widespread heavy rainfall in the state until August 31. Authorities have warned of potential landslides, flash floods, uprooting of trees, road blockages, and other hazards that could threaten life and property.
In addition, the season’s first snowfall was reported at Shipkila in the higher reaches of the Lahaul and Spiti district, signaling the onset of winter conditions in the upper Himalayas.
Manimahesh Yatra Suspended
Due to persistent rainfall and the risk of landslides, the Manimahesh Yatra, which began on August 17 and is scheduled to conclude on September 15, has been suspended, said Additional District Magistrate, Bharmaur, Kuldeep Singh Rana.
Disruption in Kangra, Hamirpur, and Shimla
Reports from Kangra district indicate that ward numbers 1 and 2 were submerged, with vehicles floating in water. In Hamirpur, water entered a tehsil office following heavy downpour. Shimla’s Tutikandi area faced danger after the retaining wall of a house caved in, highlighting the destructive impact of the rains in residential areas.
Schools and Colleges Shut
All government and private educational institutions, including schools, colleges, universities, technical institutes, and anganwadis—except residential ones—were closed in Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Mandi, Kangra, Kullu, Chamba, Una, and Solan districts. The Deputy Commissioner of Kangra, Hemraj Bairwa, issued an order asking institutions to remain shut as a precautionary measure. Similar directives were issued by administrations in the other affected districts.
Record Rainfall Across Himachal
Several areas have recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall since Sunday evening. Notable rainfall measurements include:
- Kahu, Bilaspur – 190.5 mm
- Jot – 159.2 mm
- Berthin – 156.4 mm
- Naina Devi – 148.4 mm
- Ghaghas – 148 mm
- Bilaspur – 140.8 mm
- Bhattiyat – 140.2 mm
- Malraon – 120 mm
- Amb – 111 mm
- Aghar – 110.6 mm
- Bangana – 104 mm
Precautionary Measures and Public Safety
Authorities have urged residents to avoid venturing outdoors unnecessarily, particularly in landslide-prone areas. The IMD and district administrations are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating emergency response efforts to ensure public safety and continuity of essential services.
The heavy rainfall has severely affected road connectivity, with numerous villages cut off, disrupting daily life and transport. Citizens have been advised to stay updated on weather alerts and follow official instructions.
