The huge landslide hit Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district on Tuesday morning, engulfing a passenger bus and other vehicles under tons of rubble. A total of 15 have been reported dead, with numerous others believed to be trapped as rescue efforts are ongoing in the rain-affected area.
The Incident
As per local authorities, the bus was on its way from Manali to Mandi when the hill slope collapsed just beside Aut Tunnel, dumping rocks and mud onto the highway. The unexpected landslide, caused by continuous rain during the night, engulfed the bus and nearby vehicles in a matter of seconds, not providing enough time for people to respond.
Witnesses called the scene “terrifying,” with pedestrians screaming for help as the massive wave of debris blanketed the road. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police units were immediately mobilised to the area.
Rescue Efforts
Rescue teams have been working around the clock since morning, employing heavy equipment and hand tools to remove the mud and rescue survivors. The process has been hampered by on-going rain and unstable ground, making it easier for secondary slides to occur.
At the latest update, nearly 25 passengers have been rescued, many of them with grievous injuries, and taken to nearby hospitals in Mandi and Kullu. More could be trapped inside the bus, which was partially buried, according to officials.
Government Response
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu lamented the tragedy and announced that the government is keeping a close eye on the situation. He assured that there will be a high-level inquiry to determine the causes of repeat landslides in the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sent condolences, indicating that all help is being given. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has briefly closed the hit road and issued a travel advisory for the area.
Weather and Risk Warning
A red alert for heavy to very heavy rain has been sounded in most parts of Himachal Pradesh by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla. The authorities have instructed people and tourists to stay away from the hilly regions until the weather clears.
The experts point out that the accident highlights the increasing vulnerability of mountainous areas because of deforestation, building, and unpredictable monsoon patterns.
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