Manali Cut Off: Washed-Out Highway Leaves Locals and Tourists Struggling Amid Monsoon Chaos
Life in Manali and surrounding areas has taken a tough turn as the Kullu–Manali highway (NH-21) remains severely damaged, with no quick fix in sight. Despite round-the-clock efforts, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has acknowledged that restoring connectivity will take time.
Twelve stretches of the highway have been completely washed away, and five more are partially damaged due to relentless rains and flooding. Two critical sites near Bindu Dhank are still inaccessible, and authorities are now considering airlifting heavy machinery once weather conditions improve. Over 70 machines are already working on the ground, with 20 more en route.
To maintain some connectivity, funds have been allocated to keep an alternate left-bank road functional. However, this route is narrow and unsuitable for heavy vehicles, making travel difficult for both locals and transporters.
Tourism and Agriculture Take a Hit
The highway closure couldn’t have come at a worse time. September is peak tourist season and a crucial period for apple and vegetable harvests. With tourists cancelling trips to Lahaul & Spiti and Ladakh, local businesses—hotels, restaurants, and taxi operators—are facing major losses.
Farmers are also struggling. “Getting apples out of the valley has become a nightmare,” said a grower from Kullu. Longer detours mean higher costs and greater risk of spoilage, adding to their woes.
Restoration Efforts Continue, But Challenges Remain
NHAI insists that work is being done on a war footing, but the scale of destruction suggests that normalcy may be weeks away. For Manali’s residents and businesses, the road ahead remains uncertain—both literally and figuratively.
