Srinagar, Sept 4: A devastating landslide struck Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district early Thursday, resulting in one confirmed death and several others feared trapped, including labourers originally from Tulail Gurez in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, currently residing in the Kangan area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal.
Officials reported that the landslide caused the collapse of two houses in the Manali region, trapping around 12 to 13 people under the debris. The trapped individuals were working as labourers in the area.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) immediately launched collapsed structure search and rescue (CSSR) operations. “So far, three people have been rescued with injuries and shifted to hospital. One body has been recovered. Search and rescue operations are ongoing to locate the remaining trapped persons,” an NDRF official posted on X.
Among those feared trapped are Kashmiri labourers, raising deep concern in their native Tulail and in Kangan, though their exact identities are yet to be confirmed.
The tragedy has drawn widespread grief across Jammu and Kashmir. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed condolences, saying, “The landslide incident in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, is unfortunate and saddening. A resident of J&K has lost his life, and many others are feared trapped under the debris. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family, and I pray for the safety and well-being of others.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed grief over the landslide, which has claimed several lives, including residents of J&K. Reports suggest that at least six victims may have died, though there is no official confirmation yet. The Chief Minister’s Office remains in contact with the local administration in Kullu and is coordinating efforts to extend all possible assistance.
MLA Kangan, Mian Mehar Ali, too voiced grief over the loss of lives, including residents of his constituency. He said he had spoken to one of the injured labourers and assured families that all efforts are being made to provide support.
“I have also spoken to Member of Parliament Central Kashmir, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, to take up the issue with the concerned quarters for providing all possible assistance,” he added.
Further details of the victims are awaited as Rescue operation is going on.
