Six Killed, Several Injured in Landslide Near Manikaran in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu
A devastating landslide claimed six lives, including three women, and injured several others near the PWD road opposite Gurdwara Manikaran Sahib in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district on Sunday evening. The incident, which occurred around 5 PM, has triggered an urgent response from local authorities as rescue operations continue at the site.
The landslide struck unexpectedly when a large tree, uprooted by the sliding debris, crashed onto people gathered along the roadside. Among the victims were a roadside hawker, a car rider, and three tourists, caught off guard by the sudden collapse.
The injured were promptly rushed to Jari Hospital for medical treatment, where doctors are attending to their conditions.
A police team, led by the Station House Officer (SHO) of Manikaran, has been deployed to the scene to manage rescue and relief efforts. The fire department from Jari is also en route to assist, while field revenue officials are assessing the situation and supporting emergency measures.
“The situation is under control, but we are working to ensure no one else is trapped,” a police official stated, as efforts to clear the debris continue.
Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of Kullu, Ashwani Kumar, confirmed the toll, stating, “Six people have lost their lives in the accident, while many have been injured.” The identities of the deceased remain unconfirmed as police work to establish further details.
The administration has mobilized resources to provide immediate assistance and ensure the safety of those in the vicinity.
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Preliminary reports indicate that the victims were sitting or standing near the edge of the road when the landslide occurred. The combination of the falling tree and debris caused the fatalities and injuries, catching the unsuspecting group by surprise.
Authorities are yet to determine the exact cause of the landslide, though the region’s rugged terrain and recent weather patterns may have contributed.
The Kullu administration has assured swift action to support the affected families and prevent further incidents. Emergency teams are focused on clearing the site and ensuring the road is safe for travel, a critical route near the popular Manikaran area.
Local officials have urged residents and visitors to remain cautious in landslide-prone zones, especially during unpredictable weather conditions.
As rescue operations proceed, authorities are expected to release the identities of the victims once confirmed. The investigation into the landslide’s cause will likely follow, with officials assessing whether environmental or structural factors played a role.
Further updates on the injured and the situation at Manikaran are anticipated as the response teams complete their work in the coming hours.
