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India.com
2 days ago
- Climate
- India.com
Multiple Flash Floods Hit HPs Mandi, Triggering Landslides, Damaging Houses
New Delhi: Multiple flash flood incidents were reported on Sunday in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, triggering landslides, damaging numerous houses, sweeping away vehicles, and disrupting the Mandi-Kullu stretch of the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway. Fortunately, no loss of life has been reported. Relief efforts are currently underway to restore connectivity. The areas of Panarsa, Takoli, and Nagwain were among the worst affected in Mandi, which appears to be the hardest-hit district in the state due to the intense rainfall. Hundreds of motorists were stranded in long traffic jams following a landslide on the Mandi-Kullu stretch near Jhalogi. The alternative route via Kataula-Kamand, connecting Mandi and Kullu, has also been impacted by landslides at several locations. Authorities are actively working to restore this route for light vehicles. Meanwhile, the dam authorities at Pandoh have issued an alert regarding the release of excess water from the dam, following heavy rainfall in the Takoli region. The Panchvaktra temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for stone carvings, in Mandi town, known as Chhoti Kashi, is standing tall under the swirling waters of the raging Beas River. Heavy floods of 2023 also could not damage the foundation of the Panchvaktra temple, an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monument built in the typical Shikhara architecture style. Elsewhere, with the water level of Pong Dam in Kangra district rising to an alarming position at 1,379.98 feet, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) began controlled release of 57,221 cusecs of water through its turbines and spillways. This is the highest release of water from the dam in the ensuing monsoon season. The BBMB has issued an alert in Kangra in Himachal and Hoshiarpur in Punjab to take precautionary measures in low-lying areas. Also, the road was damaged near Tattapani owing to landslides on the Shimla-Karsog route. Excess water was released from the Giri dam in Sirmaur district, triggering panic among the people settled in the dam downstream of the flood. As per the State Emergency Operation Centre, 175 roads in Mandi district, 64, including National Highway-305, in Kullu, 25 in Kangra, 12 in Chamba, 13 in Shimla, seven each in Una and Sirmour, four in Lahaul-Spiti, three, including National Highway-5, in Kinnaur, two in Solan and one in Bilaspur district, remained blocked for vehicles. The state's Meteorological Department has issued yellow weather warnings for various districts of the state till August 19. For August 17, yellow weather warnings have been issued for Shimla, Mandi, Kangra, Chamba and Sirmaur districts that will result in heavy rainfall at isolated places.
India.com
11-06-2025
- India.com
Step Back In Time With Explore Chamba's Most Fascinating Ancient Ruins
Cuddled in the picturesque terrains of Himachal Pradesh lies a treasure trove of ancient ruins that tell the stories of a bygone era. It's an old town located on the banks of river Ravi. The history of Chamba dates back to the seventh century AD when it was established by King Sahil Varman. It is this very heritage that is kept alive today with its preserved temples, forts and palaces spread all over the area. Let's look at some examples of such ancient ruins which makes Chamba an attractive destination for students of history. 1. Laxmi Narayan Temple Laxmi Narayan Temple is one of the oldest and most popular temples in Chamba that have been around since the 10th century AD. This temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort Laxmi features hill architecture which was prevalent then in this region. Additionally, walls are also ornate with images carved from myths making it visually pleasing as well as culturally important. 2. Champavati Temple This temple was built by King Sahil Varman in memory of his daughter Champavati and hence carries great religious sentiments and historical significance for people at Chamba. Shikhara style architecture along with stone carvings reflects early medieval architectural finesse period. The garden surrounding the temple provides an opportunity to have peace amidst age-old grandeur. Singh Museum Although not a ruin in the conventional sense, Bhuri Singh Museum houses a wonderful collection of artifacts related to history and cultural heritage of Chamba district name has been given after Raja Bhuri Singh who ruled over Chamba museum has got antique manuscripts, sculptures ,arms used during various periods along with provides comprehensive glimpse into art as well as history of that area. Mahal Built by Raja Umed Singh in the 18th century, Rang Mahal is a testimony of Chamba's architectural proficiency during the colonial era. Initially built as a dwelling place for the ruling family it now operates as a museum with miniature paintings of great beauty, royal artifacts and wood carvings which are typically palace is resplendent with lively frescoes and elaborate balconies which throw light on the opulent lifestyle of Chamba royals. Devi Temple Chamunda Devi Temple situated on the banks of Baner River is devoted to Goddess Chamunda who is considered as an incarnation of Durga. This temple, believed to have been constructed in the sixteenth century, represents a mix between Hindu and local Himachali surrounding areas give one panoramic view of green valleys and snow-capped peaks thus contributing to spiritual ambiance. Conclusion Chamba with its environs offers a historical journey through time, where deserted ruins and temples stand like silent witnesses of centuries-old developments of these areas. Chamba's ancient ruins are ideal for anyone interested in architectural attractions, religious destinations or cultural heritage because they promise to take them to an enlightening experience that combines spirituality with historical curiosity. As you walk around these timeless destinations, your mind will be absorbed into the tales of kings and deities, praising the ingenuity of ancient artisans and discovering the soul of Himachal Pradesh's cultural heritage.
