Severe Landslide Threatens Luxury Hotel in Kullu Amid Unseasonal Rainfall

Landslide Causes Alarm in Kullu District

A significant landslide near the Beas River in the Banderol region of Kullu district has raised concerns after a luxury hotel and a nearby building sustained partial damage due to ongoing soil erosion. The expensive property is now at risk of collapsing, prompting local residents to call for immediate evacuation as a safety measure.

Impact of Unseasonal Rainfall

This incident coincides with a period of heavy unseasonal rainfall that has affected Himachal Pradesh over the last five days, creating conditions similar to the monsoon and leading to extensive damage across various districts. Previously, a bridge collapse was reported in Chamba, with new destruction incidents emerging from Kullu and Mandi.

Road Infrastructure Faces Major Disruptions

The ongoing rainfall has severely impacted road connectivity in the area. A vital section of the Left Bank Highway, which links Kullu and Manali, has experienced subsidence near Aleo, posing significant risks to vehicle movement and commuter safety.

In Mandi district, the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway has also suffered damage, with a retaining wall near Jagar Nala collapsing again on Wednesday, despite recent repairs. This collapse has affected nearly 30 meters of the roadway, and officials have cautioned that further structural failure could threaten several nearby homes.

Snowfall in Higher Altitudes

While lower regions are experiencing heavy rainfall, higher altitudes in the state have seen fresh snowfall. Areas close to the Atal Tunnel at Rohtang reported snow, leading to slippery road conditions and prompting authorities to issue driving advisories.

Temperature Drops Sharply

The combination of rain and snowfall has resulted in a notable drop in temperatures, with April weather resembling the peak winter conditions typically observed in December and January.

Weather Improvement Expected

A brief respite in weather conditions was noted on Thursday, with clear skies reported in various parts of the state. The Meteorological Department has predicted mostly clear weather for the next five days, offering a crucial opportunity for authorities to evaluate damage and carry out restoration efforts.

The administration is on high alert, closely monitoring vulnerable areas, while residents in high-risk zones are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines.