Shimla, August 17 (HS) : Torrential monsoon rains have unleashed fresh devastation across Himachal Pradesh, with flash floods in Mandi and Kullu districts causing extensive damage and crippling connectivity. The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall across several parts of the state until August 19, urging residents to remain vigilant and avoid riverbanks.

In Mandi district, sudden flooding in Panarsa, Takoli, and Nagwai areas under Aut police station swept debris into markets, damaged shops and homes, and caused panic in local communities. The flash floods forced the closure of the Mandi–Kullu National Highway, stalling relief and rescue operations.

According to Mandi police control room, no loss of life has yet been reported, though authorities have warned residents to remain cautious. Meanwhile, Pandoh Dam authorities announced that excess water may be released into the Beas River as inflow rises, cautioning villagers, workers, and tourists to maintain a safe distance from the riverbanks.

The region is still recovering from the June 30 cloudbursts in Mandi that claimed several lives at 12 different locations.

In neighboring Kullu district, overnight downpours triggered fresh flooding in Dhoranala, where the Mouhal rivulet overflowed. Mudslides and debris from the Piradi stream blocked the Kullu–Bhuntar road, sweeping away a car and a motorbike, and destroying farmland and crops. In Bhuntar, floodwaters from the Khokhan stream entered local markets, leaving shopkeepers rattled. The administration has renewed calls for people to keep away from vulnerable rivers and streams.

The downpour has also struck Kinnaur, where landslides along NH-5 — at Ranang, Tinku, and Maling streams — have severely disrupted traffic. Only small vehicles on emergency duty are being allowed through at Tinku Nala.

Adding to the crisis, the Shimla–Mandi highway has become increasingly precarious. Riverbank erosion caused by the Sutlej near Tattapani has narrowed the highway to just 4.2 meters, sharply affecting movement. The district administration has urged commuters to exercise extreme caution.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar