Massive Landslide Hits Shimla Near Sanjauli College, Several Houses at Risk

July 11, 2026

Shimla: A massive landslide struck the Bothwell area near Sanjauli College in Himachal Pradesh’s capital, Shimla, in the early hours of Saturday, triggering panic among residents and placing several houses under threat. While no casualties have been reported, authorities have advised families living in vulnerable buildings to vacate their homes as a precaution.

The landslide occurred at around 4 a.m., when a retaining wall beneath the road leading to Sanjauli College reportedly collapsed. The resulting debris and loose soil slid downhill towards residential houses, damaging the access path to several homes and raising fears of further slope movement.

Several Buildings in Danger Zone

According to local residents, three to four residential buildings are now in the danger zone. They fear that continued rainfall could trigger additional landslides, posing a serious risk to lives and property.

Soon after the incident, residents rushed out of their homes and remained outdoors in the rain while waiting for help. Police later reached the spot and advised families to evacuate as a safety measure. However, many residents said they had no alternative accommodation and were uncertain about where to relocate.

Residents Allege Excavation Weakened the Hillside

Residents alleged that they had repeatedly tried to contact public representatives, including the local councillor, MLA and mayor, but claimed that no elected representative visited the site.

They also alleged that excavation work carried out for a private construction project, with permission from the Municipal Corporation, weakened the hillside. According to locals, continuous monsoon rains further destabilised the excavated slope, eventually triggering the landslide.

The residents have demanded that construction work in the area be stopped immediately and that a detailed geological survey be conducted to assess the stability of the hillside.

Incident Revives Memories of Last Year’s Landslide

The latest incident has revived memories of a landslide at the same location on June 28, 2025, when debris and large rocks crashed into residential houses, trapping several women and children.

With the monsoon season still in its early phase, residents have urged the district administration to take immediate preventive measures, ensure the safety of affected families and strengthen vulnerable slopes to prevent further incidents.