Cloudburst triggers flash floods, landslides across Kullu district

A sudden and intense cloudburst late last night unleashed severe flash floods across the Manikaran valley, causing widespread damage and panic among residents. The deluge swept through Chhalal village in the Parbati valley, washing away two traditional gharats (water mills) and a footbridge that connected parts of the village. The Kasol nullah, a stream that runs through the popular tourist destination, overflowed violently, damaging several parked vehicles and inundating nearby areas. Locals endured a sleepless night as water levels rose alarmingly, prompting many to evacuate their homes temporarily.

In Bhuntar, the Khokhan nullah breached its banks, sending torrents of water and slush into multiple houses and commercial establishments. Shopkeepers and homeowners scrambled to salvage belongings as muddy water flooded interiors.

The Pirdi nullah experienced a sudden flash flood, depositing heavy silt across the Kullu-Mohal road, partially disrupting traffic and making the route hazardous for commuters. The road leading to Gadauri village was damaged and the Mohal rivulet swelled dangerously, sweeping away several vehicles parked along its banks. The flood in Pahnala left a deep impact on the local community, shaking their sense of security and disrupting daily life.

Adding to the chaos, a landslide blocked the Larji-Sainj road in the Banjar subdivision of Kullu district. The Public Works Department deployed machinery to clear debris and restore traffic, but progress remained slow due to continuous rainfall. Landslides at multiple points along the Aut-Banjar road brought vehicular movement to a complete standstill. The Aut-Luhri-Sainj National Highway No. 305 was also closed, with approximately 100 metre of road caving in at Mashnunala in the Anni subdivision.

The relentless rain disrupted water supply schemes and electricity in several areas, leaving many villages without basic amenities. Landslides blocked numerous local routes, further isolating remote communities and complicating rescue and relief efforts. Fortunately, no major casualties or significant injuries have been reported so far.

Kullu Deputy Commissioner Torul S Raveesh issued an advisory urging residents to remain vigilant and avoid venturing near rivers, streams and landslide-prone zones. The authorities are actively assessing the damage and working to restore essential services.

This incident underscores the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events and highlights the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness in the fragile Himalayan terrain. With more rainfall predicted in the coming days, locals have been advised to stay cautious and prioritise on safety.