14 Aug 2018 | 12:58 PM UTC
India: Deadly and disruptive landslides in Himachal Pradesh /update 3
At least 16 killed in landslides triggered by heavy rain in Himachal Pradesh; transportation disrupted between Chandigarh and Shimla
Event
Over 100 roads have been damaged by landslides triggered by heavy rain in Himachal Pradesh state in recent days, including the Chandigarh-Shimla highway. Flooding has also affected traffic in several areas of the Parwanoo-Dharampur road. On Monday, August 13, hundreds of vehicles were stranded for hours and Northern Railways canceled 12 trains on the Kalka-Shimla route following landslides in various locations. At least 16 people have been killed in the landslides, including eight in Solan district.
Context
In India, the monsoon (or rainy) season lasts from July to September. Himachal Pradesh, located on the southern slopes of the western Himalayas, is highly exposed to the monsoon.
Advice
Individuals present in India are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in Himachal Pradesh, monitor weather forecasts, and follow the advice of local authorities.
