Himachal Pradesh Landslide: Mandi-Kullu Highway Resumes Operation, Travel Troubles Persist

New Delhi: Despite the reopening of the Mandi-Kullu highway after a 20-hour closure, travel difficulties persist in Himachal Pradesh as several other major highways remain blocked due to landslides.

With over 300 roads closed, tourists who flocked to the popular destination find themselves trapped far from their intended locations. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange advisory for the state, warning of further challenges in the next 24 hours.

The Chandigarh-Manali national highway (NH-21) has been blocked since Sunday evening, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded near Pandoh in Mandi district. Heavy rainfall triggered landslides, rendering the alternative route via Kataula-Kamand also inaccessible.

To alleviate the congestion, the local administration has diverted light motor vehicle traffic via Chail Chowk , but the increased volume has resulted in significant traffic jams.

Soumya Sambasivan , the superintendent of police for Mandi, has announced restrictions for large trucks coming from the Bilaspur side, prohibiting them from passing Nagchala . Commuters travelling exclusively towards Jogindernagar are permitted to drive beyond the Mandi bus terminal.

The State Emergency Operation Centre data reveals that a total of 83 roads, including two national highways, are blocked across the state. Mandi district bears the brunt with 35 blocked roads, followed by Sirmaur with 23 and Chamba with 10.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for travellers and commuters to exercise caution and comply with official instructions. Authorities are working diligently to clear the blocked routes and restore normalcy.