The North News
Shimla, June 30
Continuous heavy rainfall across Himachal Pradesh over the past 24 hours has triggered widespread landslides, cutting off access to many areas and disrupting transport links. Around 390 roads—both major and rural—were blocked due to debris and slope failures.
Sharing details, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh said the department was on high alert and had deployed extensive machinery to clear affected routes. A total of 110 departmental JCB machines are currently in use, along with an additional 132 machines hired from private operators. Other heavy equipment, including bulldozers, tippers, and robotic machines, have also been stationed in vulnerable areas.
He said the restoration work was underway in phases. “Out of the 390 blocked roads, 288 will be reopened within 24 hours, 56 by July 1, and the remaining 46 after that,” he said. The Minister also warned that several bridges could be washed away if the rains persist. To address this, the department has kept ₹20 crore worth of modular ‘valley bridges’ ready for immediate installation in affected areas.
A review meeting was held with department officials to assess the current situation and plan response strategies. He assured that no casualties have been reported so far and added that compensation would be provided to affected residents. He is also expected to visit the worst-hit areas soon.
The state remains on high alert as the monsoon continues, with officials urging the public to stay away from landslide-prone zones and riverbanks.
