Landslides halt traffic on Mandi-Kullu highway; alternative route closed too

Traffic movement on the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway between Mandi and Kullu has come to a complete halt following multiple landslides and incidents of shooting stones today evening. A major landslide also occurred in broad daylight near the Jhidi Nature Park, making the road impassable for some time. However, the road was made motorable by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) quickly.

According to the police, restoration work is underway at full pace at different locations between Mandi and Kullu stretch. The scale of the debris and continuous falling of rocks has made road clearance work a challenge for the authorities concerned. The authorities confirmed that the alternate route via Kataula–Kamand was also presently closed due to the ongoing repair and restoration work.

In Mandi region, a flash flood was triggered by heavy downpour in the Panarsa area today evening, which inundated the Kiratpur-Manali highway between Mandi and Kullu. Waterlogging also occurred in one of the tunnel on this road leaving many vehicles stranded.

“Restoration efforts are in full swing. Updates will be provided as soon as roads are safe for travel,” the police said, urging people to remain patient and not attempt to travel on blocked stretches.

Travellers and locals have been advised to stay updated about road conditions through official channels and cooperate with field officials for their own safety. Any attempt to bypass closed roads could result in life-threatening situations due to unstable terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.

The police have also urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel in the region until further notice, as the monsoon season continues to bring heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of further landslides.

Meanwhile, the authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are working to restore connectivity as soon as conditions permit.