Himachal Pradesh News
Shimla-Mataur Highway Blocked After Massive Landslide in Bilaspur, Traffic Diverted Amid Heavy Rainfall
A massive landslide triggered by continuous rainfall brought traffic movement to a standstill on the Shimla-Mataur National Highway (NH-205) near Namhol in Bilaspur district on Wednesday, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded for several hours.
A massive landslide triggered by continuous rainfall brought traffic movement to a standstill on the Shimla-Mataur National Highway (NH-205) near Namhol in Bilaspur district on Wednesday, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded for several hours.
Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident. However, the sudden collapse of debris onto the highway created severe traffic congestion, disrupting travel plans for people heading towards Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Mandi, and Shimla.
According to local police officials, a significant amount of debris and rocks slid onto the road near Namhol, completely blocking vehicular movement. Teams from the police department, Public Works Department (PWD), and district administration quickly reached the affected site to assess the situation and initiate restoration work.
Heavy machinery was immediately deployed to clear the debris and reopen the highway at the earliest. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as intermittent rainfall continues in several parts of Himachal Pradesh.
Traffic Diversions Announced for Commuters
To minimize inconvenience for travelers, the traffic police implemented diversion plans and urged motorists to follow designated alternate routes.
Vehicles travelling between Shimla, Bilaspur, and Hamirpur were diverted through the Brahmpukhar–Jukhala–Jabbal Bridge–Kotla–Kharsi–Dailamod route.
Meanwhile, commuters heading towards Mandi from Shimla were advised to take the Shimla–Dailamod–Navgaon–Kharsi–Kotla–Beri–Mandi road until normal traffic movement is restored.
Bilaspur Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhishek Dhiman appealed to residents and travelers to cooperate with traffic personnel and adhere to safety guidelines. He urged motorists to avoid unnecessary overtaking, follow traffic regulations, and allow priority passage for emergency vehicles.
Heavy Rainfall Impacts Several Districts in Himachal Pradesh
The landslide incident comes amid a fresh spell of heavy rainfall affecting multiple districts across Himachal Pradesh.
According to data released by the State Emergency Operation Centre, a total of 35 roads remain blocked across the state. Kullu district reported the highest number of road closures with 18 roads affected, followed by Mandi with 11 roads. Two roads each remain blocked in Una, Sirmaur, and Lahaul and Spiti districts.
The adverse weather conditions have also damaged power infrastructure. Officials reported that 126 electricity transformers have been affected statewide, including 86 in Kullu, 12 each in Solan and Chamba, 11 in Mandi, five in Una, and one in Lahaul and Spiti.
With weather forecasts indicating continued rainfall, authorities have advised residents and tourists to remain cautious, stay updated on traffic advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable areas.
