Himachal Pradesh rain update: IMD issues red alert in 10 districts, including Shimla and Mandi

Those planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh must rethink their plans as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning for heavy rains in 10 districts. Because of the heavy rainfall in the state, the Beas River in Himachal is experiencing severe flooding. The rising water level has left officials concerned. A number of roads in the state are blocked because of heavy rain. The state is also having power outages, and the iconic Shimla–Kalka heritage railway line has also been suspended temporarily because of heavy downpour.
Alert in 10 districts

IMD has issued a red alert in 10 districts including Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Mandi, Kullu, Kangra, Chamba, Una, Hamirpur, and Bilaspur. Authorities are reporting heavy rainfall in these places. Landslides, and rising river levels have also been reported. The alert remains in place through June 30, with more rainfall forecast for the first week of July.

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Shimla–Kalka railway affected
Meanwhile, the heavy rains have led to the suspension of the iconic Shimla–Kalka narrow-gauge railway, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It attracts tourists from all over but the overnight heavy rain triggered landslides. Several trees were uprooted along the tracks near Koti in Solan district. Because of which authorities had to shut down all the rail service. As per latest update, the services resumed after the restoration work.
Road trips hampered
More than 120 roads across the state are blocked as per current update. It includes sections of National Highway-5 between Shimla and Chandigarh. The popular hill route near Koti has been closed due to landslides. It has prompted authorities to advise travellers to take alternate routes or postpone travel, if not essential. Most road closures have been reported from Solan, Mandi, and Kullu districts.

Tourists warned

Local authorities, disaster response teams, and police are on high alert. Tourists in the region have been advised to stay indoors along with avoiding riverbanks and hilly trails, and monitor local news and weather updates closely. All adventure activities, including trekking and river rafting, have been suspended for now.

More rainfall predicted in the coming days
The IMD has warned that more rainfall is expected in the coming days, and travel restrictions could be extended depending on the severity of the weather.