Heavy Rain Swells Rivers and Nullahs Across Kullu District
Continuous rainfall across Kullu district has caused several rivers and rivulets to swell, raising concerns over flash floods, landslides and road disruptions. While no major loss of life or property has been reported so far, authorities remain on high alert as the monsoon intensifies.
Among the worst-affected streams is the Gadsa nullah, which recently carried a massive volume of water, trees and debris following heavy rainfall in the upper reaches. The Pagal nullah in the Sainj Valley has also repeatedly brought slush onto roads, disrupting traffic and increasing the risk of accidents. Similarly, the Dandu Cho waterfall in the Sheel area witnessed a sudden surge in water following a cloudburst in its catchment area, highlighting the volatile nature of mountain streams during the monsoon.
Hydropower Dams Release Excess Water, Residents Warned
Several other rivulets across the district are also flowing at dangerously high levels. Many dams operated by hydropower projects are releasing excess water, causing water levels in rivers and other water bodies to rise suddenly. Residents living near rivers and nullahs have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid venturing close to water bodies.
Reflecting local traditions, many people have been offering wheat flour and coins to rivers and rivulets in spate, following the long-standing folklore that such offerings appease nature and help prevent disasters.
Councillor Flags Drainage Issues in Inner Akhara Bazar
Meanwhile, Kullu Municipal Council Ward No. 2 councillor Kubja Thakur said inadequate drainage facilities in the Math area had resulted in water flowing through the streets of Inner Akhara Bazar. She appealed to the district administration to take immediate measures to prevent another catastrophe like last year's, when 10 people lost their lives in twin landslides.
IMD Forecasts More Rain, Warns of Landslides and Waterlogging
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across Kullu district on 10 July, warning that the weather could lead to localised waterlogging in low-lying areas, slippery roads, reduced visibility, traffic congestion and temporary disruption of essential services and outdoor activities.
The department has also warned of the possibility of localised landslides and mudslides, minor damage to vulnerable structures and adverse impacts on horticulture and standing crops.
51 Roads Blocked, Infrastructure Disrupted
Heavy rainfall has already affected infrastructure across the district. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre's public utility report, 51 roads remain blocked in various subdivisions of Kullu, while two distribution transformers (DTRs) have also been disrupted by rain-related incidents.
Authorities have urged residents and tourists to follow traffic advisories, stay away from vulnerable slopes and swollen water bodies, keep up to date with weather bulletins and strictly adhere to safety guidelines issued by the state government until weather conditions improve.
