Mandi News
Massive Landslide in Mandi’s Ropru Village Forces Families to Flee as Cracked Hill Poses Fresh Danger
Residents of Ropru village in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district are living in fear after a massive landslide struck the area, turning an ordinary day into a moment of panic and uncertainty.
Residents of Ropru village in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district are living in fear after a massive landslide struck the area, turning an ordinary day into a moment of panic and uncertainty.
The incident occurred along National Highway-3 in the Kotli subdivision, where a dangerously cracked hillside suddenly gave way. Huge boulders and debris came crashing down, threatening homes and livelihoods in the village below.
One of the most heartbreaking moments came when a massive rock smashed into a cowshed owned by Param Dev, completely destroying it. The shed, which stored essential supplies and ration, was reduced to rubble within seconds. For the family, it wasn’t just a structure—it was a part of their daily survival.
What has made the situation more alarming is the appearance of deep cracks in the hill above the village. Locals fear that this may only be the beginning, as the weakened slope could trigger more landslides in the coming days.
Sensing the seriousness of the threat, the administration acted quickly. Nine families living in the most vulnerable areas were evacuated to safety. While some have taken shelter with relatives, others have been accommodated in temporary arrangements at the local panchayat building.
Villagers say a significant portion of the hill has already collapsed, leaving at least nine houses at immediate risk. Many believe that ongoing hill cutting for the National Highway-3 project may have worsened the stability of the slope, making the area more prone to such disasters.
Meanwhile, the National Highways Authority of India is working to clear debris and restore traffic movement on the affected stretch. However, safety remains the top priority as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
Local leader Pooja Devi has expressed deep concern, pointing out that falling debris continues to threaten not only homes but also livestock shelters, adding to the anxiety of villagers.
Officials have urged residents to stay alert and avoid the affected zone. Kotli SDM Jagdish Chand warned that further landslides cannot be ruled out, especially given the unstable condition of the hillside.
According to Additional District Magistrate Dr. Madan Kumar, a total of 42 residents have been affected by the incident. Of these, 22 people are currently staying with relatives, while 20 have been provided temporary shelter by the administration, along with food and basic necessities.
Authorities remain hopeful that the highway will be restored within a few days, but for the people of Ropru, the fear of what might come next still lingers.
