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Heavy rains have caused significant disruption in Himachal Pradesh, with a "red alert" issued for 10 districts. The Shimla-Kalka rail line is suspended due to fallen boulders and trees. Landslides near Koti on NH-5 have led to traffic jams, while alternative routes are blocked by debris. Authorities are working to clear the roads and restore normalcy.
The Shimla Meteorological Centre has warned of potential landslides, waterlogging, and damage to structures. Traffic congestion and service disruptions are expected. A similar situation in 2023 resulted in over 550 deaths during the monsoon season. The current red alert covers Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Una, Kullu, and Chamba.
Impact on Rail Services
The Shimla-Kalka railway line has been affected by the weather conditions. Boulders and trees have blocked tracks near Solan's Koti area. Repair work is ongoing as trains remain halted at various stations. Passengers have expressed frustration online due to delays. The railway line is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Increased water levels in rivers pose additional threats. The Bald River in the Baddi district is swelling dangerously near Jhadmajri. Reports indicate water is entering homes in Shivalik Nagar due to inadequate drainage systems. The local administration has been informed of these issues as rains continue unabated.
Warnings and Precautions
The Met Office has issued an orange warning for heavy rain in isolated areas on Monday. A wet spell is predicted until July 5. Flash flood risks remain moderate to high in parts of the affected districts until Monday. Residents are advised to stay alert and avoid riverbanks.
Rainfall measurements show Jogindernagar received 135 mm since Saturday evening, followed by Kasauli with 125 mm and Hahu with 119.5 mm. Other areas like Poanta Sahib and Bijahi also recorded significant rainfall amounts.
Infrastructure Damage
A bridge leading to Himuda Complex in Solan district has been washed away, closing roads to Mandhala and Bagguwala. In Mandi's Juni Khad area, the Beas River's water level has risen due to pre-monsoon flushing at Larji Dam. All five spillway gates of Pandoh Dam were opened on Sunday morning.
The Bhakra Beas Management Board reported that about 44,000 cusecs of water is flowing through the Beas River with increased silt levels at 4,000 ppm. Consequently, power generation at Dehar Power House has been temporarily halted as the Baggi tunnel remains closed.
Since the monsoon began on June 20, rain-related incidents have claimed 17 lives in Himachal Pradesh, with four people missing according to state emergency operations data.
