Flash Floods, Landslides Hit Himachal Pradesh; Over 200 People Stranded

Heavy rain has lashed several districts of Himachal Pradesh including Mandi this week, causing discomfort to both locals and tourists.

In the Bagipul area of Mandi district, a flash flood-like situation has led to over 200 people stranded near Baggi Bridge on Mandi-Prashar road. The flood occurred on Sunday after a cloudburst around Baghi bridge in Mandi.

The police said that a bus of students from Chamba and many vehicles that were coming back from Parashar got stuck. They have been provided with facilities for their overnight stay.

The Mandi police have also informed that landslides have occurred at many places between Charmile to Satmile on Pandoh-Mandi NH in the state. The National Highway was closed after reports of flash flood from in Khoti Nala near Aut in Mandi district.

Meanwhile, several parts of Kangra City in Himachal have been facing waterlogging following incessant rainfall.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Himachal Pradesh has issued a flash flood risk warning for 24 hours. The IMD has also issued a weather warning for the state for the next five days, advising people to stay away from areas prone to landslides and rock falls.

The heavy rains have caused extensive damage in several parts of Mandi. Several vehicles were washed away due to a flash flood in a rivulet at Janjheli in Mandi district. The water level in the Beas River flowing through Mandi has also increased due to continuous rains in the hilly areas.

Shimla, also reported a cloudburst amid the intensive rain. The authorities have advised people to stay indoors and avoid travelling unless necessary. They have also asked people to be careful while driving and to not cross flooded roads. The situation is being closely monitored by the authorities.