Himachal Weather Havoc: Landslide hits Chamba, 11 pilgrims killed

An official said, ‘Deaths were caused by falling boulders and lack of oxygen. Around 3,000 pilgrims remain stranded as rescue operations continue.’

Shimla: As many as 11 pilgrims were killed in a landslide in Bharmour in Chamba district due to torrential rains during the Manimahesh Yatra, reports Dynamite News correspondent.

The dead include three from Punjab, one from Uttar Pradesh, and five from Chamba, while two are yet to be identified. An official said, 'Deaths were caused by falling boulders and lack of oxygen. Around 3,000 pilgrims remain stranded as rescue operations continue.'

Last week also during Manimahesh Yatra seven pilgrims had died and nine went missing in another landslide.

Weather: Torrential rains ravage life in Himachal; Schools, colleges shut in Shimla

Red alert for heavy rain for the next 24 hours

In view of the continuous heavy rain in Shimla for the last two days, all educational institutions will remain closed today. This decision has been taken under the order issued by Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap. The Meteorological Department has issued a warning of heavy rain in the coming 24 hours. During this time there is a possibility of landslides and falling of trees. Giving priority to the safety of the students, the district administration has taken this step. According to the order, all government and private schools and colleges will remain closed today.

Weather: Heavy rainfall predicted in Punjab, Haryana for next 3-4 days

Snow fell on the hills, Mani Mahesh Yatra banned

On August 25, torrential rains occurred in Kangra, Bilaspur, Kullu, Hamirpur, Mandi and Una districts, causing extensive damage in many areas. Due to heavy rains and landslides, four devotees from Punjab who went on the Mani Mahesh Yatra lost their lives. The administration has postponed the Yatra indefinitely. At present, about two thousand devotees are stranded on the route, although all are in safe places.

Meanwhile, Gurudev Singh (72) of Dadwara village in Nurpur died after being swept away in a fast-flowing ravine. The higher hills of the state, such as Shinkula Pass, Kugti Jot and Baralacha, recorded fresh snowfall of 10 to 20 cm.

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IMD Predictions For Punjab and Haryana

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that heavy downpour will continue over Punjab and Haryana for the next three-four days. The Weather Office has said that massive rainfall is expected in various districts in the two states. Several places are already reeling under excess rains.