Snow, rainfall disrupts life in Himachal Pradesh: 583 roads blocked; power and water supply affected

SHIMLA: Heavy snowfall and rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has resulted in the closure of 583 roads, including 5 National Highways, as reported by the State Disaster Management Authority.

Power distribution has been severely affected with 2263 distribution transformers (DTRs) non-functional, disrupting electricity supply across various regions.

The Authority's Friday report indicates that 279 water supply schemes have been affected, disrupting essential services in numerous areas.

Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu released a cautionary notice on Friday, urging locals to stay away from waterbodies, particularly rivers and streams. This advisory came as the state witnessed heavy rainfall and snowfall, with Kullu district being notably affected.


The chief minister stressed the significance of following administrative directives and taking necessary precautions during these adverse weather conditions.

"I have been taking stock of the situation since morning. All people are requested to be cautious and follow the guidelines issued by the administration. Stay away from rivers and streams," Sukhu said.

The chief minister announced that authorities have been instructed to open the gates of a power project dam as relentless downpours in Kullu Valley triggered floods and landslides across the district.


"I spoke with the deputy commissioners of Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti. We welcome the rains, but Kullu witnessed heavy downpours. We have directed to open the gates for one of the power project dams," Sukhu said.

Heavy snowfall occurred in the higher Himalayan areas of Lahaul and Spiti. The Shimla Meterological Centre warned about substantial rain and snowfall across various regions of the State, including Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts.

Kullu deputy commissioner Torul S Ravish has urged residents to stay inside their homes until the water levels recede.

"Many link roads and the main road on the left bank are blocked due to rains for the last 15-16 hours. I request the public to remain where they are as the water level has also increased in rivers and nalas. Due to sudden landslides, water flow in the river can increase. Work is underway to restore electricity in Manali and Kullu," Ravish said.

"There is a report of one-feet snow in Manali. Educational institutions in the district are closed today due to heavy rain. The main national highway from Jalori side is closed," he added.


Stay updated with breaking news, weather updates, bank holidays and upcoming public holidays in march.