Cloudbursts Cause Widespread Destruction in Himachal Pradesh; Bridges, Vehicles Swept Away, Villages Evacuated

Shimla, August 14 (Kiran News) – Heavy destruction was reported in Himachal Pradesh after cloudbursts struck parts of Kullu, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla districts on Tuesday night. Several bridges and vehicles were swept away, while houses and shops collapsed, causing significant damage to public and private property. Fortunately, no loss of life has been reported so far. Authorities have evacuated residents from vulnerable areas to safer locations.

Rainfall Alerts and School Closures

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall today in Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi districts. All educational institutions in Kullu’s Banjar sub-division, Mandi’s Gohar sub-division, Shimla’s Jubbal sub-division, and Una district have been closed for the day.

Damage in Kullu District

In Bathahad, Banjar Valley, a cloudburst on Tuesday evening triggered flash floods, damaging several houses. The Tilla and Dogra bridges were washed away, and five vehicles were swept off. Four cottages were also damaged. In Nirmand sub-division, the Kurpan stream overflowed, prompting the evacuation of Bagi Pul market. High-risk areas near Tirthan Valley and Bagi Pul were also cleared, with residents moved to safety.

Kinnaur District Impact

In the tribal district of Kinnaur, a cloudburst in the upper reaches of Rishi Dogri Valley washed away a bridge over the Sutlej River, injuring one person. Flooding in the Hojo Lungpa stream halted road construction under the CPWD between Gangthang and Bralam. The drinking water supply scheme in Pooh village was damaged, and a private company’s premises were submerged. Rising water levels and debris in the Sutlej forced the opening of gates at the Karcham Wangtoo Nathpa Dam. Heavy rain also disrupted the national highway at Pagal Nala, Nathpa, and Nigulsari.

Evacuations in Lahaul-Spiti

In Mayar Valley of Lahaul-Spiti, a cloudburst put Karpat village at risk. Around two dozen families were evacuated to safer locations.

Severe Losses in Shimla District

In Rampur sub-division’s Nanti Khad area, floods caused by a cloudburst destroyed four bridges, two houses, five shops, two sheds, apple orchards, and farmland. Seven more houses, five shops, seven sheds, and a small power project sustained damage. An ambulance and an HRTC bus were stranded in the stream, and three panchayats remain cut off.

Safety Advisory

Authorities have urged people to stay away from rivers and streams and avoid unnecessary travel. The Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall warning until August 19.