New Delhi [India], August 28 (ANI): BJP MP Kangana Ranaut on Wednesday defined the Himachal Pradesh's Banala landslide incident as 'extremely heartbreaking'. Amid continuous heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh, a landslide occured in Banala village of Mandi district, leading to the closure of the Chandigarh-Manali Highway.

BJP MP Ranaut shared a post on X, saying, 'The news of the horrific accident near Bhanala Mandi is extremely heartbreaking. There is apprehension that several people and vehicles may be buried under the debris due to the landslide. I am with the affected families and am in constant contact with the administration.'

https://x.com/KanganaTeam/status/1960921739208351927

She informed that relief and rescue operations are ongoing by the district administration. 'Relief and rescue operations are ongoing at a war footing. I pray to God to keep everyone safe and for the swift recovery of the injured,' Ranaut added.

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall in the Kullu district has also led to a portion of the highway being washed away as the Beas River flows in spate.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi for today and tomorrow. A Yellow Alert for heavy rainfall is in place on August 28 in Chamba, Lahaul-Spiti, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi, and on August 29 in Shimla and Mandi. Additionally, an Orange Alert has been issued for August 30-31 in Mandi, Shimla, and Solan. Kullu, Mandi, Kangra, and Shimla will also experience an Orange Alert on August 31.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday also, a portion of the highway was washed away by the Beas River, which was flowing in spate, Kullu police said.

Kullu Deputy Commissioner Torul S Raveesh said parts of the district were being evacuated as water levels rose sharply. 'Because of continuous rainfall, our National Highway has been damaged at many points... The water level is very high. I request everyone to avoid unnecessary travel and stay safe... Some areas were evacuated yesterday, and some areas are being evacuated as we speak. All our officers are on the field...' she told ANI.

She added that the situation had worsened after two days of incessant rain. 'NH 3 is damaged at Bindu Dhank. There is waterlogging in the bus stand. In Bahang, near the BRO portion, some restaurants and shops are affected due to water... Mining link roads are also disrupted... Orange alert has been issued...' she said.

Meanwhile, amid heavy rains, the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway has been closed for traffic from Pandoh to Aut in Mandi district for the last three days. Due to this, hundreds of cargo vehicles are stranded on the highway, and vegetables and goods are spoiling. The drivers have demanded from the administration that the National Highway be opened as soon as possible. (ANI)