Massive Landslide Cuts Off Kinnaur from Shimla, Strands Tourists and Trucks

A massive landslide in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district severed connections with Shimla. Although no injuries were reported, tourists and trucks carrying apples were stranded. Efforts to clear National Highway 5 are ongoing despite obstructions. Alternate arrangements for transporting cash crops had already been made following a similar incident the previous year.

A massive landslide struck National Highway 5 in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district early Tuesday, severing the crucial link to the state capital, Shimla, officials reported.

Though no injuries were reported, the landslide stranded a large number of tourist vehicles and apple-laden trucks on both sides of the highway, causing significant disruption.

Efforts are underway to clear the highway, but debris continually rolling down the mountain is hampering the progress, officials said. Following a similar landslide last year, alternate arrangements were made to transport cash crops like apples, but the ropeway system remains slow and challenging. Weather conditions are expected to support further withdrawal of the southwest monsoon in the coming days.