Incessant rainfall over the past few days has caused the water level in the Beas River to swell dangerously, raising alarm across Himachal Pradesh. The Manali–Leh highway, a crucial arterial route for both civilians and defence forces, has caved in at multiple stretches, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded. Authorities have urged residents and travellers to exercise extreme caution as the situation continues to worsen.

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1. Red alert issued for three districts

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a Red Alert for Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall for the next two days. Officials fear the possibility of flash floods and further landslides, with saturated soil conditions making many areas prone to road collapses. The alert comes as Himachal Pradesh reels under one of its most severe monsoon seasons in recent years.

    2. Highway caves in

      The Manali–Leh highway, considered one of the most strategic roads in the region, has suffered extensive cave-ins and landslides. This has stranded numerous commuters, including tourists, truck drivers, and local residents, in isolated pockets along the route. 

      3. Several roads closed

        According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), as many as 68 roads, including three national highways, have been blocked by landslides and mudslides. National Highways NH-03, NH-05, and NH-305 are closed at multiple points, cutting off vital links to the upper reaches of the state. Districts including Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Kinnaur have reported road subsidence and stretches washed away by swollen streams.

        4. Power supply hit

          Power supply has also taken a massive hit. The SDMA confirmed that 2,349 electricity distribution transformers are currently out of service, plunging thousands of households into darkness. Meanwhile, 234 water supply schemes have been disrupted, leaving many villages without potable water.

          5. Rising death toll

            The SDMA’s latest bulletin paints a grim picture of the human cost of this monsoon. Since the onset of rains on 20 June, the state has recorded 306 deaths. Of these, 156 were caused by rain-related disasters such as landslides, flash floods, and house collapses, while 150 lives were lost in road accidents, many of them linked to slippery or damaged roads. Officials warn that these numbers may rise as rainfall continues.

            6. Schools and colleges shut in Shimla

              In view of the worsening weather, authorities in Shimla have ordered the closure of all educational institutions on Tuesday. Schools, colleges, ITIs, polytechnics, nursing institutes, and Anganwadi centres have been directed to remain closed for the safety of students. The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, followed heavy overnight downpours that triggered fresh landslides, uprooted trees, and blocked several roads across the district.

              “All concerned Heads of the Departments are directed to ensure strict compliance with this order in the interest of the safety and security of the students,” the official statement said.

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              7. Authorities urge caution

                With the IMD forecasting more downpours in the coming days, the SDMA has warned of a high risk of further landslides and flash floods. Locals have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain alert to official advisories. Emergency teams remain on high alert, though persistent rain and blocked routes have hampered relief efforts