Cloudburst in Mandi triggers chaos; Kiratpur-Manali road blocked, property damaged 

A severe cloudburst over Shalanal Nala in Mandi district on Sunday morning caused widespread destruction.

Water and debris flooded the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane at Takoli, disrupting traffic and damaging property.

The cloudburst led to the collapse of walls around the office and colony of the infrastructure firm Afcon, and the employees ran for their lives. No casualties were reported, though several houses suffered significant damage.

Heavy rain triggered landslides, blocking the Kiratpur-Manali highway between Mandi and Kullu at Jhalogi.

District police have deployed teams to manage the situation and begin restoration work. According to officials, it may take four to five hours to clear the highway.

The alternative route via Kataula-Kamand between Mandi and Kullu has also been affected, but authorities expect to restore it soon for light motors.

The Mandi police have urged people to avoid non-essential travel. Travellers are advised to stay alert and follow official updates.

The dam authorities at Pandoh have issued an alert that water may be released from the dam following the cloudburst in Takoli area.