Shimla, July 11 (IANS) A massive landslide struck the Bothwell area near Sanjauli College in Himachal Pradesh’s capital, Shimla, in the early hours of Saturday, triggering panic among local residents and placing several houses at risk.

The incident occurred at around 4:00 a.m. while most residents were asleep. Although no casualties have been reported, the landslide has raised serious concerns about the safety of families living in the affected area.

According to officials and local residents, the landslide occurred along the road leading to Sanjauli College after a retaining wall beneath the roadway collapsed. The debris and loose soil slid downhill towards residential houses located below, cutting off the access path to several homes.

Residents said that at least three to four buildings are now in the danger zone, with fears that further soil movement could trigger a major disaster if immediate preventive measures are not taken.

Soon after the landslide, frightened residents rushed out of their homes and spent hours standing in the rain while waiting for assistance. They said that after repeatedly contacting the authorities, police personnel eventually reached the spot and advised families to vacate their homes as a precautionary measure. However, many affected residents claimed they had no alternative accommodation and were left uncertain about where to go.

Locals also alleged that they had been trying to contact public representatives, including the councillor, MLA, and mayor, since early morning, but claimed that their calls went unanswered and no elected representative visited the site. They have urged the district administration to provide immediate relief, ensure the safety of residents, and take urgent steps to prevent further damage.

Residents further claimed that the Municipal Corporation had permitted a private construction project in the area, which involved extensive excavation of the hillside. They alleged that continuous rainfall weakened the excavated slope, eventually triggering the landslide. The locals have demanded that construction work be halted immediately and that a detailed geological survey of the area be conducted.

The incident has revived memories of a similar landslide that occurred at the same location on June 28, 2025, when debris and large rocks crashed into residential houses, trapping several women and children. With the monsoon season still in its early stages, residents fear that more landslides could occur unless authorities take swift and effective preventive measures.

–IANS

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