Himachal & Uttarakhand Travel Advisory: Route Updates & Landslide-Prone Stretches to Avoid
For those traveling to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand during this week, it is necessary to know the current weather conditions and road status before making any arrangements for their travel plans. Heavy rains in the region have made it more susceptible to landslides, flash floods, rock fall, and road disruptions. As such, caution from travelers has been advised by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
Though all major tourist destinations are still open, travelers have been advised to limit their travels during heavy rainfall periods.
Why Travellers Need to Be Extra Careful
The Himalayan region becomes very vulnerable during the monsoons. The constant rains cause the mountainous slopes to become loose, thus making it very likely that there will be landslides, mudslides, and washouts of the roads. Even those highways that are still usable can face an unexpected halt because of falling debris or road cleaning.
There has also been warning issued about flash floods near the rivers and streams. Tourists are advised to stay put and not move around when it is raining.
Himachal Pradesh: Routes That Need Extra Caution
Some of the districts which are vulnerable to rain-based disturbances include Mandi, Kangra, Chamba, Shimla, Bilaspur, and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh.
Chandigarh-Manali highway has been repeatedly disturbed by landslides due to the monsoons mainly around Mandi area. While efforts have been made to fix things up as soon as possible, travelers can expect delays and diversions once it rains heavily.
Travelers going to Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala, Bir or Spiti Valley may find that there are delays and that they shouldn’t travel late in the night.
Uttarakhand: Char Dham and Mountain Roads Remain Sensitive
The routes to Char Dham, especially to places like Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, are very vulnerable during heavy rains in Uttarakhand.
The mountain passes of districts like Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Pauri Garhwal are at a greater risk of landslide and rockfall during monsoon. People must be prepared for slow vehicular movement in case the weather worsens.
Pilgrims and tourists are advised to undertake their journey in the morning hours and not venture out in the evening time through the mountain passes.
Areas More Vulnerable to Landslides
Though landslides can happen anywhere in the Himalayan region during the monsoons, there are places that need more attention due to their geographical location.
Roads along mountainous areas in places like Mandi, Chamba, Kangra, Shimla, Kullu, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi have been known to have falling rocks and mud slides, leading to road closures. Places can also suffer from poor visibility owing to foggy and rainy weather.
It is wise not to halt under such dangerous slopes and park vehicles near such hills.
Safety Tips Before You Travel
Before embarking on the trip, be sure to check the current IMD weather forecast and road condition announcements. If there is heavy rainfall expected, postpone travel plans for later.
Carry water bottles, medicine, phone, power bank, flashlight, raincoat, and first aid supplies with you. You will need to allow more time for your trip due to the possibility that clearing the road after the landslides may take hours.
Never use any forest or village roads if these roads are blocked, and you should follow the instructions of authorities on how to proceed further.
Should You Cancel Your Trip?
This does not mean always.
Despite the monsoon rains, many tourist places in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand keep getting tourists. But flexibility is important here. In case your trip involves high altitude roads, valleys, or pilgrimage paths, stay tuned to the official advisories and be ready for any delays and route modifications at the last minute.
The IMD has advised against visiting landslide-prone areas and staying away from rivers or streams.
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Conclusion
The rains convert Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand into tourist havens, yet they entail risks like inclement weather and poor road conditions. Planning, research, and awareness could prove useful in ensuring your safety while traveling to those states.
The mountains are eternal, but you can choose not to be. Prior to visiting Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, ensure that you are up to date with any warnings regarding weather and road conditions.
