Himachal & Uttarakhand Travel Advisory:Kullu- Manali-Leh Highway closed

Manali, 11 July, 2023: Travellers to Himachal Pradesh have been advised to exercise caution in view of the relentless rain that has been lashing the state and most parts of North India. Reportedly, stretches of the road connecting Kullu to Manali have caved in, falling into River Beas. There is also a high chance of landslides between Mandi and Kullu. All movement towards Rohtang and Atal tunnel has also been stopped for now.

It is also reported that the Manali-Leh highway is closed for now, and situation has been worsening on the Spiti Valley stretch as well. Shimla-Kalka train has also been cancelled for now, owing to the heavy risk of landslide.

Travellers are advised to refrain from any trips to the region. Those in the state, especially around Manali region, are also advised to stay put for now, and stay within their accommodation premises. With the currently raging rivers and mountain streams, travellers are also advised to stay away from the water streams and not go trekking as well. Aut bridge is reported to have been washed off, cutting off Manali currently. Upper reaches of Kinnaur have also been affected.

Operations are underway to resume operations on the highways again. Telecom networks have been also affected in many of these areas; while tourists are reportedly safe, most communication is stalled.

Himachal Pradesh Police has released helpline numbers for any emergency situations.

Met department has also advised travellers to not visit Uttarakhand as landslides havebeen reported from many areas in the state. The current spate of rain is likely to continue for a few more days, though it is expected to decrease from July 11. A number of roads across the state are reported to be blocked currently. Landslides have been reported from the Badrinath and Gangotri highway.