Punjab Newsline | Shimla/Jammu
Heavy rainfall triggered a devastating flash flood in the Pager Nallah of Lippa Panchayat in Himachal Pradesh's tribal Kinnaur district on Thursday morning, causing widespread damage and cutting off Lippa village from the rest of the region.
The flood blocked the flow of the Teti Khad and submerged a nearly 100-foot-long iron bridge that serves as the only road link to Lippa village, rendering it unsafe for use. Rising water levels in rivers and streams have created flood-like conditions across Kinnaur, leaving residents on edge as relentless rainfall continues.
Several houses located near the bridge are also under threat due to the swollen watercourse. With the bridge submerged, connectivity to Lippa village has been completely disrupted, prompting villagers to move to safer locations.
A heavy rainfall alert remains in effect across Himachal Pradesh, with authorities warning of further weather-related risks. Following reports of the flooding, BDC member Shashi Negi visited the affected area and inspected the damage. He said debris carried by the floodwaters had severely compromised the bridge's stability and warned that continued rainfall could lead to its collapse or wash it away. He urged the administration to conduct an immediate assessment and implement necessary safety measures.
Meanwhile, in a separate rain-related incident, the Himkoti track leading to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan has been temporarily closed as a precaution after a landslide struck the route. Battery car services have also been suspended to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
According to Shrine Board officials, debris and boulders that fell onto the track are being cleared on a war footing with the help of machinery and personnel. The route will be reopened only after the debris is completely removed, weather conditions improve, and a comprehensive safety inspection is completed.
