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A series of cloudbursts followed by flash floods wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district on Sunday night and Monday morning. The calamity struck four separate locations—Jiwa Nala in Sainj, Shillagadh in Gadsa Valley, the Snow Gallery near Manali, and Horan Garh in Banjar. The sudden floods led to severe disruption of life and property damage, prompting emergency response from local authorities.
Major Damage in Sainj Valley; 3 Missing
In Sainj Valley, a cloudburst occurred near the Jiwa Trench Weir, triggering a flash flood in Majhan Nala. Four houses in the Rehla Bihal area were severely damaged. Three people, who were reportedly trying to salvage belongings during the flood, were swept away by the strong currents. Rescue and relief operations are underway amid widespread panic. Roads connecting Sainj Bazaar and Syuund have been washed away, and a jeep along with a temporary shop were also carried off by the floodwaters.
Heavy Water Flow in Gadsa Valley Suggests Cloudburst in Shillagadh
In Gadsa Valley, unusually high water levels were observed in the Hurla, Pacha, and Manihar rivulets. Officials suspect a cloudburst occurred in the Shillagadh area, triggering the sudden surge.
Flash Floods in Manali and Banjar; Landslides Reported
Flash floods were also reported near the Snow Gallery close to Atal Tunnel in Manali. Landslides have begun near the Palchan Road close to Solang. In Horan Garh (Banjar), a flash flood swept away a small bridge and a vehicle on the Banjar-Bathahad road. A cowshed was completely destroyed, and debris entered the premises of a local government school.
Threat Looms Over Kasol Parking Zone
In the Parvati Valley, the Brahmaganga River and Tosh Nala are in spate. Several vehicles parked near Kasol were stranded until water levels receded. Local residents expressed concern over the lack of a retaining wall along the Tosh Nala. Panchayat members have urged the government for urgent intervention.
Administration on High Alert; NDRF Deployed
Additional Deputy Commissioner Ashwani Kumar confirmed that the district administration is on high alert. NDRF teams have already been stationed in vulnerable zones and are carrying out search and rescue operations. Relief measures are being extended to all affected families.
Tourist Advisory Issued for Lahaul-Spiti
With continued rainfall in Manali and surrounding high-altitude areas, the Beas River and its tributaries are swelling rapidly. Authorities in Lahaul-Spiti have issued advisories warning tourists and locals to stay away from rivers and streams. Strict compliance with police and disaster management guidelines has been mandated.
Kaza-Sumdo Road Blocked, Travel Discouraged
The Kaza-Sumdo road has been blocked in multiple locations due to landslides and debris. Local administration has directed homestay operators and village panchayats to discourage tourists from traveling to the region and encourage them to stay at safe shelters.
