Himachal weather: Chandigarh-Shimla NH among 221 roads blocked as rain wreaks havoc; total losses pegged at nearly Rs 2,000 crore

TNR News Network
Dharamshala:
Torrential rains that began late Tuesday (August 5, 2025) night have caused widespread disruption across Himachal Pradesh, plunging daily life into chaos. Triggering landslides, flash floods and road collapses, the severe weather has left several parts of the state disconnected and at high risk.

One of the most significant incidents occurred in Solan district where a bridge connecting Dhela panchayat and Dawani Industrial Area in Manakpur (Manpura) was completely washed away early this morning. The destruction of this key route has forced commuters, workers and industrial staff to take long detours via Baddi and Chanalmajra.

According to official data, four national highways and over 617 roads are currently closed due to landslides and debris. Additionally, 1,491 power transformers and 265 water supply schemes have been severely impacted.

Schools shut across several sub-divisions

Due to continuous heavy rainfall, several educational institutions have been closed for the day in many sub-divisions. In Shimla, multiple private schools declared a holiday, along with schools in Theog, Chopal, Kumarsain, Ani and Nirmand. Authorities cited potential landslides and road blockages as key reasons, emphasizing student and staff safety.

The administration has urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay alert. People are advised to stay away from rivers, rivulets and landslide-prone areas, and to contact local authorities in case of emergencies.

Vehicles buried, shops damaged in Nirmand

In Urtu village of Nirmand sub-division, five vehicles were buried under debris following a massive landslide caused by overflowing drains. Seven shops were also damaged and road connectivity was snapped.

The Kinner Kailash Yatra route has also suffered damage at several points due to relentless rainfall. Rescue teams worked overnight to evacuate stranded pilgrims to safety. In Nigulsari, National Highway-5 has been blocked due to a major landslide, further isolating parts of the region.

Kalka-Shimla National Highway blocked again near Chakki Mor

The Kalka-Shimla National Highway was disrupted again near Chakki Mor, where a massive landslide brought down mud and rocks, turning the road into a muddy trap. Vehicles are stranded, and police personnel have been deployed to manage the situation.

The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain until August 12, with scattered rainfall expected throughout the state. A slight rise in maximum temperatures is predicted over the next 24 hours.

Since the onset of monsoon on June 20, Himachal Pradesh has recorded 194 deaths, including 86 from road accidents; 301 injuries while 36 people are still missing. As many as 2,033 homes and shops have been damaged, 1,610 cowsheds destroyed while 1,551 livestock have perished. The total estimated loss stands at Rs 1,852.5 crore.