Recent flash floods in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh have caused significant disruption, blocking the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway and prompting ongoing restoration efforts. Videos circulating online capture the intense rush of muddy water cascading through the affected areas, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The flash floods, triggered by heavy rainfall and a cloudburst, struck multiple locations within the Mandi district, including Panarsa, Takoli, and Nagwain, all situated along the crucial Mandi-Kullu stretch of the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway. The highway has been blocked at several points, bringing traffic to a standstill and causing major disruption. Authorities are working to clear the blocked routes and restore traffic flow.
Thankfully, initial reports indicate no loss of human life as a result of these flash floods. Sachin Hiremath, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mandi, confirmed that no casualties have been reported. However, police are maintaining a strict vigil at vulnerable sites.
The recent event is part of a larger pattern of destructive monsoon weather that Himachal Pradesh has been experiencing. Since June 20, 2025, the state has recorded 261 deaths, with 136 of those attributed to rain-related incidents like landslides, drowning, electrocution, house collapses, and flash floods. The remaining 125 deaths were due to road accidents, often exacerbated by slippery conditions and poor visibility.
Mandi district has been particularly hard-hit, reporting the highest number of casualties at 26, along with extensive damage to public infrastructure. As of August 16, 2025, 203 roads were blocked and 458 power transformers were out of service in Mandi. Kullu has also suffered significantly, with 79 roads remaining closed, including NH-305 at Jhed (Khanag) due to a major landslide. Other affected districts include Kangra (28 deaths) and Chamba (10 deaths). Disruption of water supply schemes has also been reported in Chamba, Kangra and Mandi.
The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) estimates that the total losses from this monsoon season have exceeded Rs 2,14,457 lakh. The Public Works Department has reported losses exceeding Rs 1.18 lakh crore, while the agriculture and horticulture sectors have suffered combined losses of over Rs 83,000 crore. In addition to the blocked National Highways, other routes including NH-305 and NH-05, remain blocked due to landslides and flash floods.
Adding to the challenges, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for continued heavy rainfall in the coming days, raising concerns that conditions may worsen and has urged people to avoid travel through vulnerable stretches.
Cloudbursts have also contributed to the devastation, with incidents reported in Shrikhand and Tirthan valleys in Kullu, as well as Nandi village and Kashibat. These cloudbursts triggered flash floods in rivers and streams, further disrupting local life.
With intermittent heavy rainfall expected to continue, authorities have urged residents and travellers to avoid unnecessary movement, especially through vulnerable zones. The public is advised to stay updated on weather alerts and report any emergencies to local authorities. As rescue and restoration efforts continue under difficult conditions, Himachal Pradesh remains on high alert, bracing for further challenges as the monsoon season continues.
