Shimla: Incessant rainfall triggered a landslide on Shimla’s busy Cart Road near the Lift on Tuesday, temporarily disrupting traffic as heavy rain continued to affect large parts of Himachal Pradesh. More than 230 roads remain closed across the state, while power and water supply have also been hit, according to the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA).
The landslide brought traffic to a standstill for nearly an hour before authorities cleared the debris and restored vehicular movement.
Over 230 Roads Shut, Power and Water Supply Affected
The HPSDMA said widespread rainfall has impacted almost every district in the state. Besides 230 road closures, nearly 250 electricity distribution transformers (DTRs) are out of service and more than 90 water supply schemes have been disrupted.
State authorities have launched restoration work, with emergency teams and machinery deployed across affected areas.
Five Killed in Chamba, IMD Issues Fresh Rain Alert
Heavy rain also led to a fatal road accident in the Banikhet area of Chamba district, where five people lost their lives after an Alto car met with an accident. Flash floods have further disrupted normal life in Chamba town.
Himachal Pradesh Special Secretary (Disaster Management) Pushpinder Rana said an alert has been issued across the state following the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) forecast of heavy rainfall over the next three days. He added that disaster response teams remain on high alert and restoration work is progressing.
Residents Face Traffic Disruptions
Local residents said the landslide caused major inconvenience, especially for commuters and patients travelling to hospitals. Traffic remained stalled for nearly an hour before the blocked road was reopened.
The IMD has urged people to remain cautious as heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Himachal Pradesh over the next three days.