Avalanche Blocks Chandra River Near North Portal of Atal Tunnel

Recent rain and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh have brought forth another natural calamity, particularly impacting the Lahaul Spiti and Kinnaur districts. An avalanche today has caused a blockage of the Chandra river near the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel, as reported from Lahaul Spiti district.

Superintendent of Police for Lahaul Spiti district, Mr. Mayanka Chaudhary, confirmed the avalanche this morning, resulting in the obstruction of the Chandra river’s flow. This sudden event has led authorities to issue an avalanche advisory, urging people and tourists to avoid steep slopes and remain vigilant of potential dangers. The blockage may cause water levels along the riverbanks up to Sisu to rise, necessitating immediate evacuation from these areas.

In response to the imminent threat, the administration has issued loudspeaker warnings, stressing the importance of having proper gear, traveling with companions, and staying informed about weather updates. Locals and tourists alike are urged to exercise caution, especially in snowy regions, as the risk of avalanches remains high in these snow-bound districts.

For emergencies or inquiries regarding road conditions, individuals are advised to contact the district disaster control room at mobile number 9459461355 or the Police Control Room at 8988092298.

The Indian Meteorological Department issued an Orange alert yesterday and a Yellow alert today due to heavy rain and snowfall in isolated areas. Reports from the Meteorological Office indicate that Hansa experienced five cm of snowfall last night, with fresh snow accumulating to about one to two feet on high passes. Currently, 107 roads in the Lahaul Spiti district remain snowbound, although the Manali-Keylong highway has been reopened. However, due to the avalanche, the administration might temporarily halt traffic movement as a precautionary measure.

Various regions across the state have witnessed substantial rainfall, including Kothi with 63 mm, Manali with 35 mm, Jot in Chamba with 30.8 mm, Chamba itself with 41 mm, the tourist resort of Dalhousie with 28 mm, Keylong with 22 mm, Kasol in Kullu with 19 mm, and Kangra with 17.2 mm.

Cautionary Note:
Tourists are strongly advised not to venture alone into the snowline areas as natural surprises could endanger them at any time. The district is partially disconnected from roads, with 107 roads still blocked by snow.

As of now, there have been no reports of tourists being trapped, but the police are taking precautionary measures by evacuating people living and staying near the bank of the Chandra river. The thawing of the avalanche may potentially increase water levels downstream, especially with the opening of any artificial lake formed due to the blockage.

Downstream of the blockade points, there is also the confluence of the Bagha rivers, which originate into the Chandrabhaga river and eventually enter Chamba, becoming the river named Chenab. This confluence downstream adds to the complexity of the situation, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate any potential risks of flooding or increased water levels in these downstream areas.