Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla/Mandi , July 29
At least two people have died and major highways remain blocked after relentless rainfall triggered floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, officials said on Monday. The victims were swept away by surging waters near Jail Road in Mandi city. Authorities later recovered their bodies.
Torrential rains battered several areas including Palace Colony and the Zonal Hospital neighbourhood, burying scores of vehicles under debris and sending panic through the city. Many residents spent the night in fear as the downpour continued.
Two key highways—the Chandigarh–Manali and Pathankot–Mandi national highways—have been closed since Sunday night due to multiple landslides. Blockages were reported at Four Mile, Nine Mile, Dawada, Jhalogi, and other stretches along the Chandigarh–Manali route. On the Pathankot–Mandi road, landslides between Padhar and Mandi have cut off access.
A particularly dangerous landslide was also reported near the historic Victoria Bridge in the heart of Mandi city.
Emergency services are struggling to reach affected areas as rain continues to hamper rescue efforts. Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Senior officials including Mandi Municipal Corporation Mayor Virender Bhatt and Commissioner Rohit Rathore visited several impacted sites to oversee relief operations.
The India Meteorological Department has warned of more rain in the coming days, raising concerns about further damage in the already battered region.
