Severe Rainfall Causes Landslides in Himachal Pradesh, Disrupting Traffic

Impact of Heavy Rains in Himachal Pradesh

Pallavi Sharma

Dharamshala: Intense rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has led to landslides in various areas, severely affecting daily life and blocking essential roadways. The Dharamshala-Kangra National Highway has been particularly impacted, with a significant landslide near Sakoh halting all vehicular traffic early on Friday morning (June 20, 2025).

The landslide has obstructed this vital route, which is frequently used by tourists and local commuters. Traffic has been redirected through Mataur.

Widespread Disruptions Amid Continuous Rain

The rain, which commenced late Thursday night, persisted into Friday, diminishing visibility and heightening the risk of additional landslides. In Shimla, thick fog and consistent rainfall enveloped the city throughout the morning, creating a gloomy atmosphere even during daylight.

In a separate incident, a landslide in the Jatogh Cantonment area near Hatni Ki Dhar completely blocked the main road. A vehicle caught in the landslide suffered significant damage, but fortunately, the occupants were unharmed. Additionally, residents and schoolchildren in the Pandoh area of Mandi district faced challenges as the initial monsoon rains flooded the grounds of Shaheed Inder Singh Government Senior Secondary School. With the school field and main entrance submerged, students were seen navigating through ankle-deep water to access their classrooms.

“This occurs every year during the monsoon season. Despite numerous requests, a permanent drainage system has yet to be established, and the damaged boundary wall from last year remains unrepaired,” expressed a concerned parent.

Weather Alerts as Monsoon Intensifies

The Meteorological Department in Shimla has issued yellow and orange alerts for the upcoming week, cautioning residents about heavy rainfall in various regions of the state. Yellow alerts are in effect for June 20, 21, and 24, while orange alerts have been announced for June 22, 23, 25, and 26.

Officials indicate that conditions are now favorable for the southwest monsoon to advance further across parts of Himachal in the next two to three days.

Notable rainfall recorded overnight includes 84.7 mm in Nahan, 35 mm in Pandoh, 26.3 mm in Slappar, and over 19 mm in Paonta Sahib and Jogindernagar.