“Stay Away from Rivers and Streams!” – Himachal CM Warns as Heavy Rains and Snow Trigger Floods, Landslides

Kullu Faces Devastation as Torrential Rains Cause Road Blockages, Power Outages, and Flash Floods

Shimla, February 28: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has issued an urgent appeal for residents to stay away from rivers and streams as heavy rains and snowfall continue to batter the state, particularly in Kullu, Lahaul, and Spiti. The severe weather has triggered flooding, landslides, road closures, and power outages, prompting the administration to issue alerts and initiate emergency measures.

“I have been monitoring the situation since morning. All citizens are urged to be cautious and follow the administration’s guidelines. Stay away from rivers and streams,” CM Sukhu said while speaking to reporters.

Landslides, Flooding Paralyze Kullu District

The Kullu valley has been severely impacted, with multiple landslides and flash floods leading to:
🚧 Blocked roads, including the main highway from Jalori
🚗 Vehicles trapped or swept away
⚡ Electricity and drinking water services disrupted
🏫 Educational institutions shut down

Deputy Commissioner Torul S Ravish advised residents to remain indoors, citing rising water levels and unpredictable landslides.

“Many link roads and the main road on the left bank are blocked due to continuous rain for the last 15-16 hours. We urge the public to stay where they are as river levels continue to rise,” Ravish stated.

Power Project Dam Gates Opened Amid Heavy Rainfall

In response to the crisis, authorities have taken the extraordinary measure of opening the gates of a power project dam to manage the increasing water levels.

“Kullu witnessed heavy downpours, and as a precaution, we have directed the opening of a power project dam to prevent further flooding,” CM Sukhu confirmed.

Snowfall Intensifies in Lahaul & Spiti, More Bad Weather Ahead

The upper Himalayan regions, including Lahaul and Spiti, are experiencing intense snowfall, with one foot of snow already recorded in Manali. The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a high alert for more rain and snowfall across Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi in the coming days.

Markets, Businesses Suffer Heavy Losses

Kullu Municipal Council President Gopal Krishan Mahant reported major damage in Gandhinagar and Shastrinagar, where water overflowed into markets.

“Flash floods started around 7 AM, blocking drains and diverting water into Gandhinagar and Shastrinagar markets, causing heavy losses,” Mahant said.

With the situation worsening, authorities are urging extreme caution, especially for residents in low-lying and landslide-prone areas. Emergency services are working round the clock to restore essential services and clear blocked roads.

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Tags:

Himachal Pradesh Floods, Kullu Landslides, Manali Snowfall, Heavy Rainfall, Himachal Weather Alert, Disaster Management, Road Closures, Power Outages, CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, India Weather News