Heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours has triggered a massive landslide in Himachal Pradesh, effectively cutting off the remote Pangi Valley from the rest of the state. This disaster occurred along the Sansari–Kullu–Manali road, situated at the border of Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti districts, where the landslide washed away nearly a 60-metre stretch of the roadway, rendering the region completely inaccessible.
Approximately 40 to 50 people traveling in private vehicles and taxis found themselves stranded at Sugalwas and Kadu Nullah. Many experienced extremely cold conditions and had to spend the night in the open. Eyewitnesses described the impact of the landslide as severe, noting that the entire hillside collapsed, leaving no trace of the road and making movement impossible even on foot.
In response to the emergency, local authorities have mobilized resources to shift several stranded individuals to safer locations. The Border Roads Organisation has initiated operations aimed at reopening the road and restoring connectivity to the cut-off valley as quickly as possible.
The Meteorological Department has also issued weather alerts across the region. An orange alert has been declared, forecasting hailstorms, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds between 40 to 60 km/h in districts such as Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Solan. Simultaneously, a yellow alert warns residents in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba, and Sirmaur of similar weather conditions. Meteorologists anticipate prolonged wet spells until April 13.
This recent rainfall has caused widespread precipitation across the state, with Sarahan recording the highest at 38.5 mm. Reports indicate that hailstorms have led to significant damage to crops in various parts of the Shimla district, and snowfall is likely in elevated areas.
As a result of these adverse weather conditions, temperatures have dropped sharply across Himachal Pradesh. Kalpa and Kukumseri recorded minimum temperatures of just 0.4°C, while day temperatures remain 3 to 9°C below normal in many regions. The Meteorological Department links these wet conditions to a Western Disturbance, with another system expected to impact the area starting from April 11.
Authorities urge residents and travelers to exercise caution in light of the situation. They recommend avoiding landslide-prone routes and adhering to official weather advisories for safety.
