As skies clear up, restoration work gathers pace in Chamba

Restoration efforts picked up pace in Chamba district after three days of relentless rain and snowfall, which disrupted normal life, causing road blockages, power outages and damage to infrastructure.

As the skies cleared up, the authorities swung into action to restore connectivity and essential services across the affected areas.

Locals, who had been grappling with mobility issues and supply shortages, heaved a sigh of relief as the authorities intensified recovery efforts.

According to officials, several key roads that were blocked due to landslides and accumulated snow are being cleared with the help of heavy machinery.

The Public Works Department (PWD) and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) have deployed teams to expedite debris removal and ensure smooth traffic movement.

As per the District Emergency Operation Centre, of 121 roads that were blocked in the district, 55 have been opened to traffic while 66 remain to be restored.

Among the major roads, Chamba-Bharmour road is partially open up to Khadamukh. Holi road remains blocked due to a landslide and officials of the PWD were making efforts to restore it. The Chamba-Chowari road is also blocked due to landslide. All 35 roads are blocked in the Pangi Valley.

Power supply, which got severely impacted in multiple villages due to fallen trees and damaged transmission lines, is gradually being restored. The electricity board has dispatched repair teams to affected areas, focusing on restoring connectivity to hospitals and essential facilities.

A total of 196 electricity transformers are yet to be repaired. Pangi is the worst hit with 76 transformers still out of order. As many as 245 water supply schemes also remain affected.

The Meteorological Department has predicted rain and snow in isolated places till March 4.

Meanwhile, the district administration has urged the people to remain cautious, especially in landslide-prone areas.