Manali, July 25 (NNN) — Following a devastating cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, a stretch of the National Highway-3, popularly known as the Leh-Manali Road, has been closed for vehicular traffic. The incident occurred late Wednesday at Anjani Mahadev nullah in the Manali area, leading to a flash flood.
Authorities confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far. However, the flash flood has caused significant disruptions, particularly affecting the stretch between Dhundi and Palchan Bridge on NH-3. Vehicles traveling to Manali from Lahaul and Spiti via the north portal of the Atal Tunnel are being diverted towards Rohtang, as per an advisory issued by Lahaul and Spiti police on Thursday.
The advisory urged commuters to travel only if necessary, exercise caution while driving, and remain vigilant about potential dangers along the route.
In addition to the NH-3 closure, the state emergency operation centre reported the closure of 15 roads across Himachal Pradesh due to the adverse weather conditions. Mandi district accounted for 12 closures, while Kinnaur and Kangra districts reported closures of two and one road respectively. Moreover, 62 transformers were disrupted in the state during Wednesday night’s severe weather.
There have been unconfirmed reports of damage to a power project and several houses, with officials currently assessing the extent of the damage.
The Meteorological Office issued a ‘yellow’ alert for heavy rain in isolated areas of Himachal Pradesh until July 28, warning of potential damage to plantations, crops, and vulnerable structures. The alert also highlighted risks such as waterlogging in low-lying areas due to strong winds accompanying the heavy rainfall.
Since the onset of the monsoon on June 27, Himachal Pradesh has recorded a total of 49 deaths in rain-related incidents, with estimated losses amounting to approximately Rs 389 crore, according to the emergency operation centre.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have advised residents and travelers to exercise caution and stay informed about further developments.
