Hundreds Stranded on Chandigarh-Manali Highway After Massive Landslide

The Chandigarh-Manali national highway is closed since Saturday afternoon due to landslide and continuous falling of debris near Mandi-Pandoh Marg Char Mile. Due to this, hundreds of vehicles are stranded on both sides and people are facing great inconvenience. Outpost in-charge Anil Katoch said that the work of opening the road has been started from 8 am on Sunday and the road is expected to be restored by noon.

Chandigarh-Manali Highway Blocked 

On Saturday, the process of continuous falling of stones from the hill continued, due to which the road could not be opened due to security reasons.Triggered by heavy monsoon rains, the debris-strewn blockage has stranded hundreds of vehicles, turning the vital route connecting Chandigarh to Manali into a scene of frustration and chaos.

Hundreds Stranded after landslides

The closure has left commuters, particularly truck drivers transporting perishable goods like vegetables and fruits, in dire straits. Many have been stuck for over 20 hours, with no access to food, water, or rest areas. Drivers like Sanjay Kumar, carrying tomatoes to Manali, expressed concern over spoilage, stating, “My cargo won’t last another day in this heat.” The prolonged delay has sparked anxiety among transporters, with economic losses mounting as goods deteriorate under the sweltering sun.

Vehicles Trapped for over 20 Hrs

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has deployed heavy machinery, including excavators and bulldozers, to clear the debris. Local officials report that the landslide, spanning over 50 meters, has been challenging to tackle due to loose soil and continuous rainfall. Despite these hurdles, NHAI remains optimistic, targeting noon for partial reopening. Police and local volunteers are assisting stranded travelers, providing water and directing traffic to alternative routes where possible, though narrow detours are proving inadequate for heavy vehicles.

Relief Efforts Underway

The Chandigarh-Manali route, a lifeline for tourism and trade, faces recurring disruptions, prompting calls for long-term solutions like reinforced embankments and drainage systems. For now, stranded drivers await relief, hoping the road reopens soon to resume their journeys. The resilience of commuters and the swift response of authorities highlight the region’s determination to overcome nature’s challenges