Landslide Paralyzes Shimla: Roads Blocked, Buildings at Risk
A landslide in Shimla blocked roads and threatened structures, prompting the closure of a local school. Authorities deployed a team to clear debris, but continuous rainfall hampered efforts. Despite ongoing work, officials advised residents to avoid the area due to safety concerns as unstable conditions persist.
- Country:
- India
A significant landslide hit Shimla early Friday, obstructing the city's primary road and endangering nearby buildings. In response, authorities closed a local school for two days as a precaution.
Deputy Commissioner Shimla ordered the school closure citing safety issues, and Public Works Department teams were dispatched to remove debris and reinstate road access. However, officials have flagged the site as highly dangerous. Vijay Kumar, a Public Works Department driver utilizing an excavator, stated his team arrived promptly at 3:30 am.
"The landslide struck at 1:50 am. We received the alert by 3:00 am, reaching the site by 3:30 am. Since then, efforts to clear the road have continued. The building above remains precarious, potentially collapsing at any time. Approximately 25 vehicles are involved in the cleanup around the clock," Kumar informed reporters. Operations are hindered by persistent heavy rainfall.
A Public Works Department supervisor highlighted the challenges, noting ongoing work since 3:30 am with 20 trucks continuously deployed. "The objective is to reopen the road quickly to alleviate public inconvenience. However, traffic is prohibited due to unsafe conditions. Heavy rainfall at 7:15 am today exacerbated the situation, heightening building collapse risks," he stated. Local officials confirmed exhaustive measures to stabilize the area but cautioned that it remains off-limits until safety improves.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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