Mandi Faces Flood Threat: Cloudburst Closes Roads, Shuts Hydropower
Mandi district is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating cloudburst reported which has resulted in three deaths in Karsog and left several people unaccounted for.
A fatal cloudburst unleashed widespread destruction across Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. The deluge, centered around Karsog, claimed the lives of three individuals, with many others reported missing as rescue teams scramble to assess the damage. The sheer force of the sudden rainfall triggered flash floods, turning a quiet morning into a scene of chaos and despair. Local authorities are racing against time to locate survivors amidst the debris-strewn landscape.
Disrupted Infrastructure and Traffic
The impact of the cloudburst has severely disrupted transportation, with the Kitarpur-Manali four-lane highway closed, halting traffic and isolating communities. Landslides and waterlogged roads have compounded the crisis, stranding vehicles and cutting off access to key routes. Emergency services are struggling to navigate the blocked paths, while residents are urged to avoid travel until conditions improve. The closure has raised concerns about the supply of essentials, leaving the region vulnerable as relief efforts intensify.
Weather Warnings and Safety Measures
The Meteorological Department has issued a stern warning of heavy rain for the next 48 hours, signaling potential further devastation. This forecast has prompted authorities to take preventive action, opening the gates of Larji and Pandoh dams to manage rising water levels. To avoid additional risks, hydropower projects in the area have been shut down, a decision aimed at protecting infrastructure but adding pressure on the region’s power supply. Residents are advised to stay indoors and prepare for possible evacuations as the situation remains fluid.
Mandi District in Crisis
Local communities are rallying to support the affected, while rescue operations are underway to locate the missing. The district administration is coordinating with state agencies to provide aid, though the ongoing rain poses significant challenges. As Mandi grapples with this natural disaster, the focus is on saving lives and restoring stability. The coming days will test the resilience of the region, with hopes pinned on a coordinated effort to mitigate the cloudburst’s devastating aftermath.
