Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
A massive glacier collapse triggered by heavy snowfall caused widespread damage in the tribal Bharmour region of Chamba district late Tuesday night. The incident occurred around 1 am at Ot Nallah under Poolan Panchayat, creating panic among local residents.
According to officials, a huge portion of glacier broke off from the mountain following continuous snowfall and crashed down with snow, rocks, and debris. As a result, two pickup vehicles and three roadside shops were completely destroyed. Fortunately, no casualties were reported as people had vacated the area in time.
The pickup vehicles, which had arrived from Bharmour carrying goods, were parked near Ot Nallah on Tuesday evening. During the night, the glacier collapse swept both vehicles into a deep gorge, leaving no visible trace by morning.
The damaged vehicles bear registration numbers HP-38F-7066 and HP-73-8462. One belongs to Ghardlo Devi, wife of Jahari Ram, while the other is owned by Banti, both residents of Poolan village. Three shops owned by Ghardlo Devi near Ot Nallah were also buried under snow and debris, resulting in heavy financial losses.
The incident has spread fear across Poolan and nearby villages. Locals said such a large glacier collapse has not been witnessed in the region for nearly 50 years. Many families stayed awake throughout the night amid fears of further glacier movement.
Following the incident, local administration and police teams rushed to the spot. Rescue and damage assessment work is underway, though efforts are being hampered due to heavy snow and difficult terrain. Poolan Panchayat Pradhan Anita Kapoor confirmed the incident and said the administration has been informed.
The Bharmour region received 3 to 4 feet of snowfall on January 23 and 24, followed by over two feet of fresh snow on Tuesday night. Officials believe continuous snowfall weakened the snow layers on the mountains, leading to the glacier collapse.
The administration has urged residents to remain alert and avoid vulnerable areas. A detailed assessment of losses will be conducted once weather conditions improve.
