Manali Devastated by Natural Disaster, 1500 Tourists Stranded as Roads Collapse
Manali, usually bustling with domestic and international tourists, now lies eerily silent after a massive natural disaster struck on August 25. The Beas River flood has wreaked havoc, leaving the entire region devastated. Roads have been washed away, mobile networks are nearly non-existent, and internet access is disrupted, leaving locals and tourists disconnected from the outside world.
Major Roads Blocked, Tourists Forced to Walk to Safety
All major routes connecting Manali — including the Manali-Kullu National Highway, Leh road, and Vamtat route — have been damaged or washed away. "The collapse of the Old Manali bridge has blocked all alternate routes. With the weather now clearing, many stranded tourists have begun walking five kilometers from Manali to Aleo, where they are finding taxis to reach Kullu.
Gas Supply Halted, Shortage of Essentials
For the past five days, gas supply to Manali has been suspended. Essential items such as vegetables, milk, bread, and eggs are in short supply. Additionally, the region’s apple harvest, worth crores of rupees, is at risk as transportation to markets has stopped.
1,500 Tourists Stranded, Sheltered in Hotels and Homestays
Around 1,500 domestic and foreign tourists are stranded across Lahaul, Manali, Manikaran, Banjar, and other regions. With all exit routes closed, they remain stuck in the area. However, the local administration has ensured their safety by accommodating them in hotels and homestays. Road from Kullu to Mandi is still blocked, further delaying evacuation efforts. Authorities are in the process of evaluating the total impact of the disaster.
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