Severe Landslide Disrupts Traffic on Chandigarh-Manali Highway in Himachal Pradesh
Traffic Disruption Due to Landslide
Munish Sood
MANDI: A significant landslide near the 4 Mile area close to Pandoh in Himachal Pradesh has caused major disruptions on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway (NH-3), stranding numerous vehicles and prompting authorities to issue a strong travel advisory against heading towards Manali, Lahaul, and Leh.
The Himachal Pradesh government has advised tourists and commercial drivers to refrain from non-essential travel along this vital route until clearance operations are completed and safety is assured.
Details of the Landslide Incident
Landslide Occurred Late Sunday Night
The landslide began late Sunday night around 11 PM, initially with minor rockslides reported near the 4 Mile section. Authorities took immediate action to halt traffic as a precaution. However, by Monday morning at approximately 8 AM, a significant landslide occurred, depositing large amounts of debris, rocks, and mud onto the highway, effectively halting all vehicular movement.
Anil Katoch, the officer in charge of the Pandoh police post, confirmed that ongoing rockfalls from the cliff are complicating debris removal efforts. Although heavy machinery has been dispatched to the site, restoration work is challenging due to the extent of the slide and the unstable hillside.
Stranded Tourists and Relief Efforts
Food Shortages for Stranded Tourists
The blockade has left hundreds of vehicles stuck on both sides of the landslide area. Tourists heading to popular destinations like Rohtang Pass, Keylong, and Leh are experiencing significant delays, with many facing shortages of food, drinking water, and sanitation facilities.
Emergency services are currently on-site to assist those affected and coordinate basic relief efforts. Officials are urging the public to cooperate and remain patient as clearance operations are underway.
Travel Advisory Issued
In response to the situation, the Himachal Pradesh administration has issued the following travel advisory:
• Delay all non-essential travel towards Manali, Lahaul, or Leh via NH-3 for the next 24 to 48 hours.
• Avoid night travel, especially during the ongoing monsoon season.
• Stay updated through official traffic advisories from HP Traffic Police and local authorities.
• Carry emergency supplies, including food, water, extra fuel, warm clothing, and basic medications.
Risks of Alternative Routes
Authorities Warn Against Alternative Routes
While there are alternative routes through Shimla-Rampur-Kinnaur-Kaza-Keylong, authorities caution that these paths are longer, more difficult, and only suitable for experienced drivers with well-equipped vehicles. Officials have also warned travelers against relying solely on Google Maps in hilly areas, as many suggested mountain paths may be non-motorable or unsafe during the monsoon.
This incident marks the second significant landslide at the 4 Mile area in recent weeks. The previous landslide blocked the highway for nearly 28 hours before it was cleared, underscoring the vulnerability of this crucial transport route during the monsoon season.
