Heavy Rains and Landslides Kill at Least Seven in Himachal Pradesh
Incessant heavy rainfall has triggered devastating landslides in Himachal Pradesh, leading to multiple fatalities. In Mandi district, a landslide buried two houses, killing at least seven people, including five members of one family. In Kullu, two others are feared dead after houses collapsed. The severe weather has blocked over 1,100 roads across the state, including several national highways. In response, the state government has ordered all schools and colleges to remain closed until September 7 to ensure student safety.
Unpacked:
Landslides in Himachal Pradesh are mainly triggered by heavy rainfall, steep slopes, weak geological formations, deforestation, unregulated construction, and land degradation. Human activities such as unplanned development and agriculture can also increase susceptibility to landslides.
The government is taking additional steps, including deploying disaster response forces for rescue and relief, blocking affected roads for safety, and promoting community awareness. Long-term measures include implementing early warning systems, hazard mapping, and developing disaster management plans.
Preventive measures include afforestation, proper land use planning, slope stabilization (e.g., retaining walls), drainage correction, early warning systems, restricting construction in high-risk zones, and public education on evacuation and disaster preparedness.
Himachal Pradesh is highly landslide-prone, with about 26% of its area susceptible. Landslides occur frequently, especially during heavy monsoon rains, and can range from small disruptions to severe events causing fatalities, property damage, and major infrastructure blockages.