News
Kiratpur–Manali Highway Blocked Again After Massive Landslide; Flash Flood Hits Katwadhi Village in Mandi
Traffic along the vital Kiratpur–Manali National Highway (NH-3) was disrupted once more on Saturday morning after a major landslide struck at Khotinalla in Mandi district, barely a day after the road had been reopened.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which had managed to restore the highway on Friday following a four-day closure due to earlier landslides, immediately deployed workers and heavy machinery to clear the fresh debris. Officials said the landslide, which occurred in the early hours, brought down large boulders and soil, leaving the road completely impassable.
Restoration work is now underway at a war footing, and authorities expressed hope that if weather conditions remain favorable, the route may be reopened within the next couple of hours.
The renewed closure has once again left hundreds of commuters, tourists, and transport operators stranded, underlining the highway’s importance as the primary link between Mandi, Kullu, and the popular tourist destination of Manali.
Flash Flood in Katwadhi Village, Mandi
In a separate incident, panic gripped residents of Katwadhi village in Gohar sub-division of Mandi district after a sudden flash flood struck around 9:15 p.m. on Saturday. Triggered by heavy rainfall, the Naseni rivulet swelled rapidly, causing significant damage to local infrastructure.
Although there were no reports of casualties, the flood carried heavy debris and silt, damaging the area’s only stone-cutting unit and partially affecting nearby shops. A parked vehicle was also swept away in the strong current.
Residents described the sudden surge in water levels as terrifying, as it rose without warning, leaving little time for precautionary measures.
Panchayat Pradhan Fata Ram confirmed the incident and assured prompt action. District administration teams reached the site immediately after the flood to begin relief and damage assessment. Authorities have advised villagers to remain cautious and move to safer areas, particularly in view of the forecast of continued heavy rain.
With recurrent natural disasters hitting the region, the administration has urged both residents and travelers to stay updated through official channels and avoid unnecessary movement in vulnerable areas. The district remains on high alert to tackle any further emergencies.
