Himachal: Flash floods block Manali-Leh highway in Lahaul Spiti

Lahaul Spiti (Himachal Pradesh) [India] August 5 (ANI): Two incidents of flash floods at separate places in Lahaul and Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh were reported on Monday. The Manali-Leh National Highway 3 has been blocked near Zing zingbar following the flash flood incident today, police said.
The sudden surge of water, triggered by heavy rain, caused substantial damage to the road, leading to the accumulation of debris and rocks.
"All traffic is halted at Darcha and Sarchu police check posts untill the road is cleared," the Lahaul Spiti Police said in a advisory for travellers about traffic being stopped.
According to the police, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), has been swiftly mobilised to address the situation and teams are currently on the site working to clear the debris.
"Travellers are advised to avoid the area until the highway is fully reopened. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates on the progress of the clearance operation," police said.
Another incident occurred at Dandhal Nullah on Sansari Killar Thirot Tandi (SKTT) road in the Udaipur sub-division, resulting in a complete blockage of the road due to heavy debris.
The SHO Udaipur with his team reached the spot and ensured the precautionary measures, police said.
No loss of life or property was reported and the restoration work was immediately started.
Earlier on Friday, Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri conducted an on-site assessment of the damage caused by flash flood to the Kurpan Khad Water Supply Scheme at Baagi Pul in the Kullu district.
He revealed that the Rs 315 crore Kurpan Khad project, currently under construction, suffered extensive damage due to the flash flood and directed the department to take immediate and necessary measures to restore the project.
He expressed concern over the significant loss of approximately Rs 10 crore incurred by the Jal Shakti Vibhag in Baagi Pul due to the disaster.
Agnihotri also commended the tireless efforts of the department's officials and employees working diligently to restore the water supply schemes.
The Himachal Pradesh Deputy chief minister also visited the Matiyana region in Shimla district to assess the damage to the water supply schemes and related infrastructure. (ANI)