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Impact of Heavy Rainfall in Dalhousie

Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
The charming hill station of Dalhousie, a favored tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh, has been severely affected by continuous rainfall since early morning, leading to significant disruptions in the area. The heavy downpours have caused rivers and streams to overflow, resulting in numerous road blockages and increased alertness in nearby regions.

In the heart of Dalhousie, a tree fell at Subhash Chowk, obstructing both traffic and pedestrian access. Additionally, debris and boulders have cascaded onto Balloon Road, further complicating transportation. Local officials are actively working to clear the affected routes, but the ongoing rain is hindering their efforts.

Approximately six kilometers from Dalhousie, in Khalkhupur, a cloudburst over the Karelnu stream has raised alarms, although no injuries have been reported. The rapid rise in water levels has caused concern among residents and travelers. The nearby area of Bathri is also experiencing overflowing streams, heightening the region's risk.

Despite the severity of the rainfall and associated risks, there have been no reports of fatalities or significant property damage thus far. However, the situation remains precarious, with forecasts indicating that heavy showers will persist.

As a safety measure, major routes such as Dalhousie–Pathankot, Dalhousie–Chamba, and Dalhousie–Khajjiar have been temporarily closed due to landslides and water accumulation. Both tourists and residents are advised to refrain from traveling until conditions improve.

The district administration is vigilantly monitoring the situation and has urged locals to stay indoors and remain vigilant. Emergency response teams are prepared, and efforts to restore access to blocked roads are currently underway to ensure public safety.

The once tranquil landscape of Dalhousie has been transformed by nature's wrath, serving as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between beauty and vulnerability in the Himalayan region.