137 roads blocked, power supply hit due to landslides in Mandi district

Heavy rainfall in Mandi district triggered multiple landslides today, badly disrupting transportation and electricity supply across the region. As many as 198 roads, including the vital Kiratpur-Manali National Highway, are blocked at various points due to landslides. Fortunately, no loss of life has been reported so far.

The worst-affected area is Dharampur subdivision, where 47 roads are blocked. Other affected subdivisions include Seraj (26 roads blocked), Karsog (34), Padhar (13), Jogindernagar (12), Thalaut (29), Sundernagar (10), Sarkaghat (10), Mandi (9), Balh (4), and Gohar (4).

The Kiratpur-Manali highway, a key route for commuters and tourists, faced blockades at three major points: near 4 Mile in Mandi, Aut Tunnel and near Pandoh. Though as partial relief, one-way traffic has been restored on the highway between Mandi and Kullu, authorities have urged people to avoid traveling on this stretch unless absolutely necessary. The road remains vulnerable to further landslides, especially between Mandi and Aut.

According to Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Gursimar Singh, out of the 198 roads blocked, 61 have been cleared and restored for vehicular movement. Restoration work is actively underway with teams from the Public Works Department (PWD) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) deployed at multiple locations.

In addition to road blockages, the district is facing a major power crisis due to disruption to 314 electricity transformers. The Gohar division has been hit the hardest, with 199 transformers rendered non-functional. Efforts are ongoing to restore power supply across affected areas.

The ADC further warned that the Beas river and its tributaries are flowing at elevated levels due to continued rainfall. Locals and tourists are advised to stay away from riverbanks to avoid any mishaps.

In Mandi town, landslides have also been reported in the Sanyard ward area and near the Vishwakarma Temple, posing a serious threat to nearby residential properties. Officials are closely monitoring the situation.

The authorities remain on high alert as the region continues to experience unstable weather conditions. Citizens are advised to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated through official channels.