Flash floods disrupt road connectivity in Himachal
Floods caused by rapid glacial melt in the Jahlma Nallah have once again disrupted road connectivity between Lahaul and Pangi, washing away a temporary road constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on the Sansari-Kilad-Thirot-Tandi road in Lahaul-Spiti district. Monday’s disruption has isolated several villages and raised concerns about the transportation of vegetables and other cash crops during the peak harvesting season.
The temporary road was constructed by the BRO a few weeks ago after a massive landslide damaged the bridge over the Jahlma Nallah. It served as an alternative route while the agency prepared to build a permanent Bailey bridge at the site. However, the rapid melting of glaciers in the higher reaches led to a sudden increase in water flow, which washed away the temporary road, completely halting vehicular traffic.
In an effort to assist stranded residents, the BRO initially installed a temporary footbridge over the swollen Nallah. But as the water level rose rapidly during the day, the structure became unsafe for use. Officials later installed a temporary zipline facility to help residents cross the turbulent stream while restoration work continued.
The road closure has caused concern among farmers and gardeners who are currently harvesting vegetables and other produce to send to markets outside the area. Growers fear that prolonged road disruption could result in significant financial losses if their produce is unable to reach the market on time.
Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana has directed the BRO and the district administration to take immediate steps to restore the road and ensure that the difficulties faced by local residents are resolved without delay. Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana visited the affected site at Jahlma Nala to review the situation and inspect the restoration work being carried out by the BRO. During the visit, he directed BRO officials to carry out repair work on a war footing to reopen the road for vehicular traffic as soon as possible.
The DC stated that restoring connectivity is the district administration’s top priority, especially during the current harvest season, as uninterrupted road access is crucial for transporting vegetables and other cash crops to markets.
He also directed the Public Works Department to fully support the BRO by deploying available machinery and manpower to expedite restoration work and operationalize the alternative route as soon as possible.
To minimize the risk of similar incidents, Bhadana directed the Divisional Forest Officer to prioritize dressing and channelization of the Jahlma drain. He stated that these preventive measures would help keep the temporary route safe until the Bailey bridge being constructed by the BRO is completed.
Officials from various departments, BRO representatives, and local residents were present during the inspection. The district administration has directed all concerned agencies to work in close coordination to restore connectivity as soon as possible and minimize inconvenience to the public.
Landslide Blocks Shimla-Manali Highway
The Shimla-Manali National Highway was blocked for nearly two hours on Tuesday evening after a landslide near the Chakkar area, causing massive traffic jams and inconvenience to travelers. No casualties or property were reported.
Debris fell onto the highway due to the landslide, blocking a large portion of the road and causing long queues of vehicles on both sides.
Police and district administration teams arrived at the scene and began restoration work. Traffic was restored after the debris was cleared after approximately two hours.
Police have advised travelers to exercise caution while traveling on the highway, especially during the ongoing monsoon season.
