Monsoon expected to start retreating in a day but rain to last till September 24
TNR News Network
DHARAMSHALA: Heavy overnight rain caused severe disruption in Himachal Pradesh’s Bilaspur on Wednesday as widespread damage was reported from various parts.
Key areas of Bilaspur town, including Cinema Colony and the main market, were submerged as roads turned into streams. Water entered shops around Chetna Chowk, Champa Park and the bus stand, resulting in significant financial losses for local traders and residents.
Landslides block highways, buses trapped in Rishikesh debris
Multiple landslides have struck the district, particularly near the Bagchhal bridge and Samletu on the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway, severely impacting vehicular movement.
Several Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses got trapped in landslide debris in Rishikesh (Bilaspur), prompting rescue and road clearance efforts by authorities. Commuters have been advised to take alternative routes until roads are restored.
Over 560 roads closed across Himachal
According to the State Disaster Management Authority, as of Thursday (September 18, 2025) morning, 566 roads, including two national highways, remain blocked. Additionally, 525 power transformers and 281 water supply schemes have been disrupted.
Districts like Kullu (155 roads), Mandi (203), Shimla (50), and Bilaspur (24) have been worst affected. Since the onset of the monsoon on June 20, the state has suffered property losses amounting to Rs 4,595 crore. As many as 419 lives have been lost while 45 people are still missing.
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has predicted continued rainfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh until September 24, though a reduction is expected from September 19. Naina Devi in Bilaspur received 140.8 mm of rain last night, followed by Bilaspur at 122.8 mm.
