Himachal Pradesh: flash floods disrupt Manali-Leh highway in Lahaul spiti

On Monday, two separate flash flood incidents were reported in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul and Spiti district. The Manali-Leh National Highway 3 was blocked near Zingzingbar due to these floods. Heavy rains triggered a sudden surge of water, which caused significant damage to the road, leading to the accumulation of debris and rocks.

According to the Lahaul Spiti Police, all traffic has been halted at Darcha and Sarchu police check posts until the road can be cleared. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has been swiftly mobilized to address the situation, with teams working on-site to remove the debris. Travelers are advised to avoid the area until the highway is fully reopened. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates on the progress of the clearance efforts.

In a separate incident, the Dandhal Nullah on the Sansari Killar Thirot Tandi (SKTT) road in the Udaipur sub-division was completely blocked by heavy debris. The SHO of Udaipur and his team reached the location to ensure precautionary measures were in place. No loss of life or property has been reported, and restoration work began immediately.

Earlier, on Friday, Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri conducted an on-site assessment of the damage caused by a flash flood to the Kurpan Khad Water Supply Scheme at Baagi Pul in the Kullu district. The Rs 315 crore Kurpan Khad project, which is currently under construction, suffered extensive damage. Agnihotri directed the department to take immediate action to restore the project and expressed concern over the significant loss of approximately Rs 10 crore incurred by the Jal Shakti Vibhag due to the disaster.

Agnihotri also praised the efforts of the department’s officials and employees, who are working diligently to restore the water supply schemes. In addition, he visited the Matiyana region in Shimla district to assess the damage to water supply schemes and related infrastructure.

The ongoing flood recovery efforts highlight the region’s challenges and the concerted efforts by local and state authorities to address the immediate needs of affected areas and restore essential services.