Munish Sood
Mandi: A sudden cloudburst in the early hours of Tuesday wreaked havoc across the Karsog subdivision of Mandi district, leaving one person dead and several others missing. The torrential downpour triggered flash floods and landslides, sweeping away homes, vehicles, and a key bridge connecting Shopa and Chalaru villages in Lower Karsog.
According to district officials, the cloudburst struck around midnight, catching residents off guard. Swift rescue operations led by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local authorities resulted in the evacuation of at least 16 people, including 12 children and four women. A family of seven from Riki village was also rescued and relocated to safety.
Several houses in the region suffered extensive damage, while roads were blocked due to landslides. The Patikari hydro power project reported structural damage, and the rising water level in the Beas River prompted the opening of the Pandoh Dam gates, leading to the evacuation of the Pandoh market area.
In nearby Dharampur, Syathi village witnessed similar devastation, with homes and cowsheds washed away. Fortunately, no casualties were reported from that area.
The Kiratpur-Manali highway remains blocked at multiple points, stranding commuters overnight. Relief teams are distributing food and water to those stuck in tunnels and roadside shelters.
All educational institutions in Mandi and Kangra districts have been ordered shut as a precautionary measure. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with more rain forecast in the coming hours.
The Himachal Pradesh government has urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official advisories. Rescue and relief efforts are ongoing.
