6 Killed as Storm Uproots Tree, Triggers Landslide in Himachal’s Kullu
Kullu, March 31: A devastating storm in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, on Sunday evening resulted in a tragic accident that claimed the lives of at least six people and injured five others. The storm, which brought strong winds, caused a landslide that led to a massive tree falling on vehicles and food stalls near the Manikaran Gurdwara.
Eyewitness Accounts & Rescue Operations
Eyewitnesses reported that the tree, located by the roadside in front of the Manikaran Gurdwara, collapsed due to debris sliding down from a nearby hill. Several bystanders were trapped under the tree, resulting in multiple casualties. According to Ashwini Kumar, the Additional District Magistrate of Kullu, the six fatalities included a roadside hawker, a Sumo driver, and three tourists. The five injured individuals were swiftly taken to the local community hospital in Jari for medical care. Police and rescue teams were immediately deployed to assist with relief efforts.
Weather Warning Issued Earlier
Earlier, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in four districts of Himachal Pradesh, including Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi. On Thursday, the weather department specifically cautioned about thunderstorms with wind speeds of 40-50 km/h in these areas. Despite the alert, the storm on Sunday evening took a tragic turn, leading to unexpected casualties.
Location & Tourist Significance
Manikaran, located at an altitude of 1,829 meters, is a popular pilgrimage site for both Sikhs and Hindus. It is situated approximately 40 km from Kullu and is known for its hot springs and religious significance. This incident has raised concerns about safety measures in landslide-prone areas, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Government’s Response
Authorities have urged travelers and locals to exercise caution during unpredictable weather conditions. The rescue operation is still underway, and officials are assessing the damage caused by the landslide. More updates are expected as the situation evolves.
