Flights and Train Services Disrupted in North India Due to Heavy Rains

New Delhi, 12 July 202: Torrential rains have unleashed havoc in various parts of North India, leading to numerous rain-related incidents. The situation has resulted in the cancellation of several flights and trains, leaving many travellers stranded. Flights between Delhi and Dharamshala, as well as Delhi and Leh, have been particularly affected.

According to aviation sources, heavy downpours caused the cancellation of around 20 flights and delays in 120 services at the Delhi airport. Many of these flights were scheduled to operate between Delhi and weather-affected cities such as Shimla, Dharamshala, and Leh.

In various cities and towns across the region, residential areas and roads have been submerged in knee-deep water due to overwhelmed civic systems caused by record-breaking rainfall. Flash floods have also washed away roads in hilly areas, prompting authorities to advise against visiting the hills until the weather conditions improve.

Furthermore, all trains departing from Kalka and Shimla have been cancelled due to multiple landslides. Heavy rainfall has triggered landslides in several places within the Solan district, resulting in the temporary closure of the Kalka-Shimla UNESCO World Heritage track.

The Kalka-Shimla line is not the only railway route affected by the incessant rainfall. The Vande Bharat Express service between Chandigarh and Una has also been cancelled due to track damage near Morinda caused by heavy rains. Flight schedules at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh have also been impacted, with approximately 10 flights cancelled on Sunday.

Given the current situation, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued fresh Red and Orange alerts for Himachal Pradesh and a Yellow alert for Delhi over the next 24 hours. Travelers are advised to stay updated with the latest weather information and exercise caution during their journeys.