Urgent operation launched after massive landslides cut off key tourist route

Shimla, September 3, 2025 – The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has decided to airlift nine heavy-duty machines to restore the Kullu-Manali highway, which has been severely damaged by landslides and flash floods following incessant rainfall in Himachal Pradesh. The move comes as thousands of locals and tourists remain stranded, and supply chains to the region face disruption.

According to officials, the landslides over the past week have swept away large portions of the road, leaving several stretches completely inaccessible. With road transportation blocked and conventional delivery methods proving impossible, the NHAI has turned to the Indian Air Force for logistical support to transport excavators, dozers, and other specialized equipment directly to the affected sites.

Senior engineers of the NHAI confirmed that the restoration operation is being treated as a national priority. They said the airlift was the only viable solution, as ground access remains treacherous due to unstable slopes and recurring slides. The machines, once deployed, will be tasked with clearing debris, reconstructing washed-out patches, and stabilizing weakened sections of the highway.

Officials added that a team of geologists has been sent to assess the mountain’s structural safety before large-scale reconstruction begins. Their findings will determine how quickly traffic can resume on one of the state’s most critical highways, which serves as a lifeline for residents and businesses while also being a gateway for tourists heading to Manali, Rohtang, and Leh.

Local residents have welcomed the decision, though concerns remain over how long the repairs will take. Many villages have reported shortages of essentials, with prices of food and fuel rising due to supply disruptions. Tourism operators, meanwhile, fear massive losses as the peak travel season nears and cancellations increase by the day.

The state government has assured that temporary arrangements are being made to facilitate the movement of essentials through alternative mountain routes. Relief teams are also being deployed to deliver supplies to stranded tourists and villagers until normal connectivity is restored.

Environmental experts, however, have warned that the increasing frequency of landslides in Himachal Pradesh reflects broader ecological concerns. They point to unchecked construction, deforestation, and climate change as underlying factors making mountain highways more vulnerable than ever. They have urged authorities to adopt sustainable practices in rebuilding projects to prevent similar disasters in the future.

For the moment, the focus remains on restoring the Kullu-Manali highway at the earliest. Authorities estimate that with round-the-clock operations, partial movement of vehicles could resume within two weeks, though complete restoration may take longer depending on weather conditions.

The emergency airlift plan reflects the scale of urgency in reconnecting the region. For the thousands currently cut off, the arrival of heavy machines by air marks the first real step toward normalcy after days of isolation and uncertainty.

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