Heavy Rains and Landslides Hit Himachal Pradesh and Bihar: Schools Closed, Travel Disrupted

Severe weather conditions have wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh and Bihar, with heavy rainfall triggering landslides and flooding that have disrupted daily life, forced school closures, and brought transportation to a near standstill in several regions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for multiple districts in both states, warning residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as the weather situation continues to deteriorate.

Himachal Pradesh Under Siege

In Himachal Pradesh, continuous downpours over the past 48 hours have led to multiple landslides across mountainous districts including Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Kinnaur. Several major highways, including the critical Manali-Leh route, have been blocked by debris and fallen rocks, leaving hundreds of tourists and local residents stranded.

Authorities have evacuated families from vulnerable areas near riverbanks and unstable hillsides. The state disaster management authority has reported at least 15 incidents of landslides, with teams working around the clock to clear blocked routes and rescue stranded travelers.

Schools and colleges across the state have been ordered shut for three days as a precautionary measure. Local administration has set up relief camps and provided essential supplies to affected communities.

Bihar Battles Floods

Meanwhile, in Bihar, heavy rainfall has caused major rivers including the Ganga, Kosi, and Gandak to swell dangerously close to warning levels. Low-lying areas in districts such as Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Saharsa are experiencing severe waterlogging.

The state government has deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to assist with rescue and relief operations. Flood waters have entered residential areas, forcing thousands to relocate to higher ground. Agricultural lands have been submerged, raising concerns about crop damage and food security.

Educational institutions in the affected districts have been closed until further notice, and the district administration has advised people to avoid venturing near water bodies.

Transportation Disrupted

Both states are facing major transportation challenges. In Himachal Pradesh, landslides have blocked numerous roads, while in Bihar, flooded streets have made movement difficult. Railway services have been affected with several trains cancelled or diverted, and bus services have been suspended on dangerous routes.

Air travel has also been impacted, with some flights to Shimla and Patna experiencing delays due to poor visibility and adverse weather conditions.

Government Response

Both state governments have activated emergency protocols. Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh and Bihar have conducted review meetings with disaster management officials and directed authorities to ensure swift rescue and relief operations.

Relief materials including food, clean water, medicines, and temporary shelter supplies have been dispatched to affected areas. Compensation packages for families affected by the disasters have been announced.

The central government has assured full support to both states and has deployed additional NDRF teams to assist with ongoing operations. The IMD continues to monitor the situation and has warned that more rain is expected in the coming days, urging residents to stay alert and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities.