The Mandi-Pathankot highway, a vital arterial road in Himachal Pradesh, was fully restored to traffic after a landslide caused a complete blockade that lasted approximately seven hours. According to the Tribune News Service, continuous clearance operations by the authorities enabled the resumption of vehicular movement by evening.
Details of the Landslide and Blockade
The landslide occurred early in the day, dumping large amounts of debris and rocks onto the highway, effectively cutting off connectivity between Mandi and Pathankot. The blockade stranded numerous vehicles and caused significant inconvenience to commuters. Local authorities immediately deployed heavy machinery and teams to clear the debris.
The restoration efforts were hampered by the volume of material that had fallen onto the road, but the teams worked relentlessly to clear a path. By late afternoon, the highway was partially opened for essential vehicles, and by evening, full traffic movement was restored.
Impact on Commuters and Traffic
The seven-hour closure affected hundreds of travelers, including those heading to and from the Kullu-Manali region, as the Mandi-Pathankot highway is a key route for tourists and locals alike. Many vehicles were forced to wait for hours, and some had to take longer alternative routes. The blockade also disrupted the supply of essential goods to the region.
Authorities advised commuters to plan their journeys accordingly and to stay updated on road conditions. No injuries or casualties were reported from the incident.
Response and Clearance Operations
Officials from the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) coordinated the clearance operations. According to a PWD official, “Continuous clearance operations were carried out, and traffic resumed in the evening.” The official also stated that the department would monitor the area for any further landslides, especially given the ongoing monsoon season.
The highway is now fully open for all types of vehicles, and commuters have been advised to drive cautiously due to the possibility of fresh landslides in the region.
