The North News
Shimla, February 28
More than 300 roads have been blocked across Himachal Pradesh due to relentless snowfall and heavy rain over the past 24 hours, raising serious concerns about the state government’s disaster preparedness. Videos emerging from Kullu depict flood-like conditions, particularly in Buntar town, as residents struggle with the impact of extreme weather. Meanwhile, in Kullu, two days of relentless rain have wreaked havoc. Reports indicate vehicles swept away in the Bhootnath Nala area and others buried under debris in Gandhinagar. With over 50 electricity transformers down and water shortages worsening, the situation appears dire.
Residents across Himachal Pradesh have shared videos and photographs with The North News exposing the dire conditions in the state, accusing the government of a complete failure in crisis management. Many allege that authorities were ill-prepared for the extreme weather, despite advance warnings. College students voiced frustration, stating they are unable to attend classes due to the relentless snowfall and heavy rain. As disruption spreads, questions mount over the government’s preparedness to handle such emergencies.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, warning of light to moderate snowfall across most areas, with the potential for heavy snowfall in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti. Higher altitudes in Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Kangra, and Manali in Kullu are also expected to be severely affected.
Despite official assurances, road connectivity remains a significant challenge. While National Highway 05 (Shimla to Rampur) is operational, National Highway 705 (Theog to Hatkoti) is under maintenance, and State Highway 8 (Deha-Choupal) remains closed. In contrast, roads within Shimla city and the Shimla-Sunni-Tattapani route are open. Yet, many remote areas are completely cut off, leaving residents stranded without basic necessities, the media reports suggested.
The crisis has escalated in Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, and Mandi, where power outages and collapsed infrastructure have left communities in distress. Snowfall continues to blanket Lahaul-Spiti, with some areas seeing accumulations of more than three feet. Authorities have issued avalanche warnings, urging people to remain indoors.
In response, the district administration has ordered the closure of educational institutions in Lahaul-Spiti. However, critics argue that the government’s slow reaction has left residents in peril, with essential services still not fully restored. As another storm looms, many are questioning whether authorities are doing enough to tackle the crisis.
