Successful Evacuation of 63 Tourists from Janjheli Amid Landslide Crisis

Emergency Rescue Operation in Janjheli

Munish Sood

Mandi: A significant rescue operation took place on Sunday morning, successfully evacuating 63 tourists and hotel staff who had been stranded in the remote hill station of Janjheli due to severe rainfall and landslides.

The group was lodged at a private hotel in Janjheli, a well-known tourist spot in Mandi district, when heavy rains caused multiple landslides earlier in the week. This natural disaster resulted in extensive damage to roads and disrupted communication, isolating the hotel from the surrounding areas.

In response to the emergency, the Himachal Pradesh Government instructed the Mandi District Administration and the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to commence an urgent rescue operation. A dedicated team of disaster response personnel, road clearance units, and local officials initiated the mission early Sunday.

By 11:00 AM, all 63 individuals, including tourists and hotel staff, were safely transported from Janjheli to Karsog, a nearby town with reliable road access and necessary support services.

Swift Coordination and Ground Support

Officials commended the collaborative efforts of all departments involved, particularly the road maintenance teams who worked tirelessly to restore partial connectivity in the affected area. Health assessments were conducted immediately following the evacuation, with no injuries or health concerns reported among those rescued.

“We are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of every individual in our district,” stated a spokesperson from the DDMA, Mandi. “This successful operation showcases the commitment and teamwork of our ground staff, rescue teams, and support personnel.”

Tourist Advisory: Adhere to Weather Guidelines

The administration has urged travelers to exercise caution when planning trips to hilly regions during the monsoon season. Officials recommend checking local weather updates and road conditions before setting out to interior areas like Janjheli, which are susceptible to landslides and weather-related disruptions.

This incident underscores the critical need for proactive disaster preparedness and effective local governance in managing natural disasters in vulnerable Himalayan regions.