Heavy Rains Paralyse Himachal; Train Services Halted, Over 1,300 Roads Closed

By A Staff Reporter

Shimla: Normal life in Himachal Pradesh has been severely disrupted after continuous heavy rainfall triggered landslides, flooding, and widespread damage across the state. Authorities on Tuesday said train services had been suspended, 1,311 roads—including six national highways—had been closed, and schools remained shut as a precautionary measure.

The local Meteorological Office has issued a red alert for the state, warning of extremely heavy rain in isolated areas for the day, followed by an orange alert forecasting heavy to very heavy rain the next day. Officials have urged residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay indoors, citing the risk of flash floods and landslides.

Emergency services have been put on high alert, with disaster management teams and the police coordinating rescue and relief operations. In several districts, stranded vehicles were reported on blocked roads, while local administrations worked to clear debris and restore connectivity.

The suspension of rail services has added to the disruption, with routes in hilly regions particularly vulnerable to landslides. Education authorities said schools will remain closed until conditions improve to ensure student safety.