Himachal Landslides: Crucial Bridge Collapses, Valley Isolated

Recent landslides near Jahlma village in Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul-Spiti district have caused extensive damage to a bridge on the vital Sansari-Kilar-Thirot-Tandi road. This has severed connectivity between the tribal district and the Pangi valley of Chamba district, impacting essential supplies and services for numerous panchayats. The damaged bridge, a critical lifeline for the region, also saw its foundation compromised, leading to its partial collapse.

Hundreds of tourists faced disruptions and were stranded due to traffic restrictions imposed following the incident. Local administration and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) teams are on-site, assessing the damage and working towards restoration. An alternative route for light vehicles is being prepared, with hopes of operationalizing it soon. However, the full relocation and reconstruction of the bridge at a new site is estimated to take approximately one-and-a-half months, posing significant challenges for local communities and the upcoming vegetable season.