Authorities in Himachal Pradesh have stepped up precautionary measures after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Red Alert for extremely heavy rainfall in several districts. In view of the weather warning, all government and private educational institutions in Kangra district will remain closed on July 20 and 21, while a flash flood in Kinnaur has damaged a key road and bridge near the Tibet border.
Kangra Schools Closed On July 20 And 21
Kangra District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner Hem Raj Bairwa has ordered the closure of all government and private educational institutions in the district on July 20 and July 21. The order covers schools, colleges, vocational and technical institutes, Anganwadi centres, creches, the Central University of Himachal Pradesh, and the Sanskrit University at Balyahar. The administration has also postponed examinations scheduled for these two days.
The decision was taken after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Red Alert for very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several districts of Himachal Pradesh. Authorities said the closure is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Which Districts Are Under Red Alert?
The IMD has issued a Red Alert for:
• Monday: Chamba, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur
• Tuesday: Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi and Sirmaur
The weather department has warned that isolated places could receive very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.
Flash Flood Damages Road In Kinnaur
A sudden flash flood in Tubar Nallah near Rani Kanda on the Sangla-Chitkul route caused major damage in Kinnaur district. The flood damaged a bridge and blocked the road connecting the Tibet border area, disrupting access to forward posts of the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Officials said the route is strategically important for transporting troops and supplies.
Administration On High Alert
Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant has directed all deputy commissioners to keep district emergency operation centres operational round the clock. Authorities have also been asked to:
• Identify landslide, flash flood and cloudburst-prone areas.
• Keep SDRF, NDRF, police, Home Guards, fire services and ambulance teams on standby.
• Deploy Quick Response Teams wherever necessary.
Safety Advisory For Residents
The administration has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall. Residents have also been advised to stay away from rivers, streams, nallahs, landslide-prone slopes, flooded roads and overflowing bridges. In case of emergencies, people can contact the State Emergency Helpline (1070) or the District Emergency Helpline (1077).
