Landslide Traps Vehicles on Chandigarh-Shimla Highway

Chandigarh A major landslide disrupted traffic flow on the Chandigarh-Shimla four-lane highway near Chakki Mor on Monday, trapping hundreds of vehicles and causing significant travel delays. The landslide occurred following heavy rainfall in the region, triggering a massive pile-up of debris and rocks on the highway stretch. The situation remained tense for several hours as authorities scrambled to clear the road and ensure public safety.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with tourists, locals, and commuters stranded in long queues, unsure of how long the wait would be. The incident took place around the early hours of the day, and it took nearly four hours for the road to be cleared partially and made one-way to allow stranded vehicles to move slowly.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, the alternate routes connecting the region were also affected by the rainfall. Some roads were blocked due to waterlogging and minor landslides, leaving little option for diversion. This led to frustration among commuters and tourists traveling to or from Shimla, a popular hill station that often sees high traffic, especially during monsoon season.

Local administration, along with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and emergency services, rushed to the site to initiate relief and restoration work. JCB machines and heavy equipment were deployed to remove debris and clear the road. Personnel worked tirelessly despite the risk of further landslides, as intermittent rain continued throughout the day.

One stranded tourist from Punjab shared her ordeal: “We were on our way to Shimla for a family vacation, but we have been stuck here for hours. There’s no clear information on when we’ll be able to move forward. It’s scary with the mountains above us and debris on the road.”

The district administration has issued a caution for travelers in the area, especially during monsoon, urging them to check weather and traffic updates before embarking on the journey. They have also asked tourists to remain calm and avoid panic while the clearing operation continues.

By late afternoon, the authorities managed to restore partial movement of traffic using a one-way system, but long queues and congestion remained. There is also concern over future disruptions as the weather forecast continues to predict heavy rain in Himachal Pradesh and surrounding areas.

Environmentalists have long warned that extensive road expansion in hilly terrains without adequate ecological planning could increase the frequency of such incidents. This landslide highlights the urgent need for proper slope management, drainage systems, and timely maintenance of highways in landslide-prone zones.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by infrastructure in mountainous regions during the monsoon. While rescue and clearance operations are ongoing, travelers are advised to remain updated through official bulletins and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.