Shimla
Since previous night, heavy rains have persisted in various parts of Himachal. Shimla is among the several locations where the rain is still falling. The Meteorological Department reports that from July 21 to the evening of July 23, there is a chance of heavy rain throughout the state, which might cause landslides and flooding. The administration has cautioned citizens in such a circumstance. An orange rain warning has been issued by the Meteorological Department for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan, and Sirmaur. The local government issued directives on Monday to keep schools closed in Shimla, Mandi, and other districts due to the prevailing circumstances.
Due to the continuous increase in the amount of silt in the Sutlej river in Kinnaur district, it has been decided to temporarily close the Nathpa Jhakri Power House. At 12 noon on Monday, the level of silt in the Nathpa Dam (Wangtu) reached dangerous limits and was recorded at 6299 ppm (parts per million). According to the set standards, this level is not considered safe for power generation. For this reason, as a safety measure, the flushing process of the reservoir has been started at 12:45 pm. After the power house was closed, the water gates of the dam have been opened. About 1400 cumecs of water will be released from the Nathpa Dam into the Sutlej River downstream. The administration has advised people living in the coastal areas of the river, fishermen, tourists and local residents to remain alert. People have been appealed not to go to the banks of the Sutlej River and maintain a proper distance from the river.
