MANDI/MANALI: Some people travelling in three to four vehicles, feared buried under debris remained unconfirmed so far, after a massive landslide struck Banala on the Mandi–Kullu highway on late Wednesday, turning the bustling stretch into a zone of devastation.
According to initial reports, a huge portion of the hillside collapsed without warning, sweeping away some vehicles and trapping commuters in darkness. But there was no official confirmation on this so far.
Eyewitnesses said a deafening roar was followed by clouds of dust as the slope caved in, blocking the highway and leaving several stranded on both sides along the surging Bea River.
The traffic has been stopped at Banala both sides and machines are clearing the debris.
Rescue teams, including NDRF, police, and local volunteers, rushed to the spot and launched operations on a war footing.
However, heavy rain and continuous sliding of debris are hampering efforts.
Officials have not yet confirmed the number of people or vehicles trapped, but locals fear some vehicles were trapped inside the debris. "We dug up the debris, but no vehicle or person were found to be trapped in the debris so far", said an official who dismissed Kangna Ranaut's post as a hearsay.
Expressing deep sorrow, local leaders said they are in constant touch with the district administration.
The Mandi–Kullu_ManaliLeh highway, a vital lifeline connecting Mandi and Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti districts with the rest of Himachal Pradesh, has been closed to traffic.
Authorities have advised people to avoid travel on the route until clearance is completed.
DS Lahaul-Spiti Kiren Bandana said the highway is closed at Pagal Nallah. The tourists are safe and taking shelter at Sissu rest house and other hotels. The tourists have been advised no to travel till rains relent and tge roads are restored.
More updates awaited
