Daijiworld Media Network- Kangra

Kangra, Feb 28: A cloudburst and heavy rainfall triggered devastating flash floods in Luwai village of the remote Chhota Bhanghal valley, damaging 14 houses, a middle school building, and burying four vehicles under debris on Friday morning.

According to reports, continuous heavy rain over the past 48 hours has paralysed normal life in the
valley. Several villages remain without power after supply poles were uprooted, while landslides and fallen trees have blocked major roads leading to Multhan, Luhardi, Barot, and Kothi Kohar. Hundreds of vehicles are currently stranded as most roads are either covered in snow or obstructed by large boulders.

In response to the situation, local authorities have opened floodgates at two hydro power projects in the valley to prevent further damage. Additionally, various camping sites along the Uhal river have suffered significant destruction.

The district administration has issued an advisory, urging tourists and locals to avoid rivers and streams, as the Meteorological Department has predicted moderate to heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours.

However, residents of Chhota Bhanghal have expressed concern over delayed rescue and relief operations. Baijnath MLA Kishori Lal assured that relief teams were dispatched early this morning. He stated that he had directed the Baijnath administration to ensure immediate relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts in the affected areas.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with further updates expected as relief operations progress.