Cloudburst in Kinnaur blocks NH-05, Kullu worst-hit with 30 road closures; IMD warns of heavy rain in several districts till July 5

Monsoon has finally arrived in India, affecting many states. Monsoon rains have caused heavy damage in Himachal Pradesh, where 60 roads remain closed and 9 people have lost their lives. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for several districts of HP until July 5.

The monsoon arrived in Himachal Pradesh on June 30, but heavy rainfall and landslides have since disrupted life across many districts of the state, forcing the closure of numerous roads. According to official figures, 1 person died in Chamba, 1 in Kullu, 3 in Kangra, 1 in Mandi district, and 2 in Shimla, while 1 person lost their life in a road accident. A major cloudburst in the Kinnaur district triggered a flash flood, with heavy debris blocking NH-05. Restoration work is underway, and authorities have advised people to strictly follow traffic advisories and exercise caution.

The important ATR route between North Portal and Sarchu has been closed to vehicles near Yurnath due to bad weather. Meanwhile, temporary traffic diversions have been put in place on the Ajouli-Sanoli road in Una district. In total, an estimated 60 roads remain blocked across different districts of HP. Kullu district has recorded the highest number of closures with 30 roads, followed by Sirmaur district with 14 roads and Chamba district with 7 roads. The disruption has also affected water supply, with 27 water supply schemes impacted statewide.

According to official records, the monsoon has caused private property losses of approximately Rs 69.65 lakh, with Mandi district recording the highest financial loss at Rs 24.10 lakh. Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary movement, particularly near landslide-prone areas, and to follow all weather advisories issued by the administration.