Monsoon Fury Grips Himachal: Hundreds of Roads Shut as State Braces for Heavy Rainfall

Himachal Pradesh is once again under the relentless grip of monsoon mayhem, with widespread disruption reported across the state. A staggering 339 roads, including crucial arteries in the popular tourist districts of Mandi and Kullu, have been shut down due to the incessant rainfall and the imminent threat of intensified downpours.

The State Emergency Operation Center has issued a high alert, warning residents and tourists alike to exercise extreme caution as the weather conditions are expected to worsen significantly in the coming days.

The closure of these vital routes has brought daily life to a standstill in many areas, isolating communities and severely impacting transportation.

Local authorities are working tirelessly, deploying resources to clear debris and restore connectivity wherever possible, but the persistent rains are posing significant challenges. The closure encompasses a vast network of roads, from major highways to remote village links, highlighting the extensive nature of the current crisis.

Mandi and Kullu, often bustling with tourists, are particularly affected.

Residents in these regions are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors. The weather department’s forecast indicates that heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to lash several parts of Himachal Pradesh, especially the lower and middle hills, increasing the risk of landslides, flash floods, and rockfalls – hazards that have tragically claimed lives and caused extensive damage in previous monsoon seasons.

The administration has urged all citizens to remain vigilant, monitor local news for updates, and adhere strictly to advisories issued by disaster management authorities.

Emergency services are on standby, but the sheer scale of the road closures underscores the difficulty in reaching affected areas promptly. Tourists planning to visit Himachal Pradesh are strongly advised to reconsider their travel plans until the weather stabilizes and road conditions improve significantly.

Safety remains the paramount concern as the 'Dev Bhoomi' navigates another challenging monsoon spell.