Heavy rains have unleashed chaos across northern India, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. In Jammu, at least 11 people have died, including seven pilgrims en route to the Vaishno Devi shrine, due to landslides and flash floods triggered by the relentless downpours. Neighboring Himachal Pradesh has also been severely affected, with a major highway in Kullu washed away and numerous roads blocked.

Vaishno Devi Tragedy:

The pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi shrine has been disrupted by a massive landslide along the route, claiming the lives of seven devotees. The incident has prompted immediate response, with authorities deploying rescue teams to assist stranded pilgrims and manage the situation. The fresh disaster comes just days after a cloudburst in Kishtwar's Chisoti village killed 65 people, mostly pilgrims.

Himachal Pradesh Devastation:

Himachal Pradesh is reeling under the impact of incessant rains, with widespread landslides and flash floods reported across the state. A multi-story hotel and several shops were washed away in Kullu's Manali, highlighting the severity of the situation. The Manali-Leh highway has suffered extensive damage, with stretches of the road completely swept away by the Beas river. Major landslides at Dwada and Jhalogi in Mandi have made the Mandi–Kullu stretch impassable. Near Bindu Dhank, close to Manali, a large part of the road was washed away by the flooded Beas, cutting off access to the popular tourist destination.

Key Points of the Rain Mayhem:

1. Loss of Life: At least 11 people have died in Jammu due to landslides and flash floods, including seven pilgrims on the Vaishno Devi route.
2. Infrastructure Damage: A major highway in Kullu has been washed away, and hundreds of roads are blocked in Himachal Pradesh.
3. Disrupted Communication: The rains have caused flash floods, collapsing bridges, toppling electricity poles, and snapping mobile networks across vast stretches of Jammu and Kashmir.
4. Suspended Transportation: Traffic on the Jammu–Srinagar and Kishtwar–Doda highways has been suspended, and several trains have been canceled.
5. Alerts Issued: The local meteorological office has issued a red alert for heavy rain in Kangra, Chamba, and Mandi. Punjab is also on high alert.
6. River Swelling: The Beas River is flowing above the danger mark in both Mandi and Kullu, raising concerns for people living in low-lying areas.
7. Evacuation Efforts: The Manali administration evacuated residents from Bahang and Alu Ground as a preventive measure.
8. Rescue Operations: Army relief columns have been deployed in Katra and surrounding areas to rescue stranded civilians and assist civil agencies.
9. School Closures: All government and private schools in the Jammu division will remain closed until August 27. Schools are also shut in Punjab from August 27-30.
10. Travel Advisory: Authorities have advised people to avoid non-essential travel and stay away from riverbanks.

The situation remains critical, with weather forecasts predicting more rain in the coming days. Authorities are working to restore connectivity, provide relief to affected populations, and ensure the safety of residents and tourists alike.