Severe Landslides Disrupt Wedding Plans in Himachal Pradesh

Monsoon Rains Cause Havoc in Mandi District

Munish Sood reports from Mandi: Continuous heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, leading to numerous landslides and significant disruptions on the crucial Chandigarh-Manali National Highway (NH-3).

One of the hardest-hit areas was the Pandoh-Dayod region, where a substantial landslide near Magar Nullah halted all vehicular traffic. The debris completely obstructed the highway around 11 PM, leaving many vehicles stranded, including a wedding convoy traveling from Dudar to Jwalapur. It wasn't until 10 AM the following day that the road was partially cleared, causing chaos for the groom caught in the situation.

As the wedding season peaks in northern India, many families are facing challenges due to extreme weather conditions. For one groom, the journey with his baraat (wedding procession) turned into an unexpected ordeal.

Departing at 3 AM from Dudar, the procession cautiously navigated through minor landslide areas and reached Kainchimod by 4 AM. However, they encountered significant trouble near Dayod, where a heavy landslide at Magar Nullah completely blocked the highway. The resulting traffic jam, filled with debris and stranded vehicles, left the groom and his entire party stuck for hours.

Police Intervene to Assist Stranded Groom

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, officers from the Pandoh police post quickly arrived at the scene. With the road unlikely to be cleared soon, they took decisive action: escorting the groom and several family members on foot through a safe route beyond the landslide area.

A taxi was arranged from the Kullu side, allowing the groom to continue his journey toward Jwalapur, ensuring that the wedding festivities could proceed without significant delays.

Dayaram Thakur, a relative accompanying the wedding party, shared, “We left around 3 AM with the groom from Dudar. We made it as far as Dayod, but the road was completely blocked. Thanks to the police, the groom could move ahead; otherwise, the entire ceremony could have been jeopardized.”

Authorities Advise Caution Amid Ongoing Rainfall

Mandi Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma confirmed that efforts were underway to safely evacuate all vehicles stranded near the landslide zone and restore traffic flow. She urged travelers to exercise caution while using NH-3, as persistent rainfall has triggered landslides at various locations along the route.

“The highway is susceptible to landslides during heavy rains,” stated SP Verma. “We advise all drivers to stay vigilant and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary, especially under the current conditions.”