Rains cause havoc in Himachal’s Mandi; landslides, flooding block key highways, roads

Heavy rainfall since last evening has triggered widespread landslides and flooding across Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, causing severe disruption to road connectivity and daily life.

The Kiratpur-Manali National Highway (NH-3), a key arterial route between Mandi and Kullu, is currently blocked at multiple locations due to landslides and continuous shooting stones.

The alternate route via Kataula–Kamand has also been rendered inaccessible due to similar conditions.

Authorities have launched extensive restoration efforts, but persistent rainfall and unstable terrain are hampering progress.

Travellers are being urged to strictly follow the instructions issued by local authorities and on-ground personnel.

The situation has been exacerbated by additional road blockages across the district.

The Mandi-Dharampur highway via Kotli is blocked near Kainchi Mod, while the Mandi-Jogindernagar highway is also impassable close to Mandi.

The Mandi-Rewalsar road near Lohardi has been affected, and several link roads in different parts of the district have reported landslides and waterlogging.

Waterlogging in the Balh area of Mandi has further complicated the movement of people and emergency services.

The Beas River and its tributaries are currently in spate due to the incessant downpour, increasing the risk of flash floods in low-lying regions.

Mandi Police have issued public advisories urging residents and travelers to avoid unnecessary movement and stay away from riversides and landslide-prone zones. Emergency response teams are on alert, and restoration machinery has been deployed to clear debris and reopen the affected routes. Local administration is closely monitoring the situation, and regular updates are expected as conditions evolve.

The weather department has forecast continued rainfall for the next few hours, prompting authorities to remain vigilant. The residents of Mandi district are facing immense challenges due to the extensive damage caused by the rain-triggered events, with transportation, communication, and essential services all heavily impacted.