Shimla — Following a red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department regarding heavy to very heavy rainfall, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has instructed the Deputy Commissioners of Kangra, Solan, Sirmaur, and Mandi to close all schools immediately as a precautionary step.

The IMD has alerted residents about the potential for severe rainfall across ten districts, which raises the risk of landslides, flash floods, and interruptions to vital services. The Shimla-Kalka railway line has been halted due to debris and fallen trees obstructing the tracks, and numerous roads, especially in Solan and Mandi, are currently impassable.

Officials are advising the public to stay indoors, limit travel to essential trips only, and adhere to safety guidelines. Emergency services are on standby, and restoration efforts are actively taking place in the impacted regions.

This decision comes as concerns grow regarding the state's infrastructure resilience during the monsoon season, particularly in light of the catastrophic rains in 2023 that resulted in over 550 fatalities statewide.