Heavy rainfall in the last 24 hours triggered a massive landslide in Himachal Pradesh, cutting off the remote Pangi Valley from the rest of the state. The landslide struck along the Sansari–Kullu–Manali road, affecting the border areas of Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti districts on April 10.
Affected residents reported that the landslide resulted in the loss of a nearly 60-metre stretch of road, rendering the region completely inaccessible. Around 40 to 50 individuals travelling in private vehicles and taxis found themselves stranded at Sugalwas and Kadu Nullah, many forced to spend the night in harshly cold conditions.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the landslide was so severe that
- the entire hillside collapsed,
- leaving no trace of the road,
- and all movement became impossible, even on foot.
In response to the situation, local authorities relocated several stranded individuals to safer locations. They prioritized the safety and comfort of those impacted, as weather conditions remained severe.
The Border Roads Organisation has commenced operations aimed at reopening the road and restoring connectivity to the cut-off Pangi Valley. Engineering teams have mobilized resources to assess the damage and initiate restoration efforts.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department issued weather alerts for several districts. An Orange Alert remains in effect for hailstorms, thunderstorms, lightning, and high winds (40–60 kmph) affecting districts including Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Solan. A Yellow Alert indicates similar conditions could reach Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba, and Sirmaur.
A prolonged wet spell is forecasted until April 13, heightening concerns regarding further landslides and road blockages.
Rainfall has been widespread across Himachal, with Sarahan recording the highest at 38.5 mm. Reports also indicate that hailstorms in parts of Shimla district have caused significant crop damage. Additional snowfall is likely in the higher reaches of the state, complicating the recovery and response efforts.
Cold conditions intensified across the region, with Kalpa and Kukumseri recording lows of 0.4°C. Daytime temperatures in many areas remained 3–9°C below normal, exacerbating the hardship for stranded individuals and affected communities.
The wet conditions correlate with a Western Disturbance, with meteorologists anticipating another system’s impact from April 11. Authorities have urged residents and travellers to exercise caution, avoid landslide-prone routes, and adhere to official weather advisories as the situation evolves.
