Hundreds of students and youth from Gada-Gushaini under Banjar subdivision of Kullu district took to the streets yesterday, demanding the commencement of construction work of the under-construction college building.

The rally, which began at the college premises, passed through the main market area and culminated in a big public meeting at the local bus stand.

The rally was organised to highlight the “neglect” as students said they had been waiting for a proper college building for over a decade.

The existing site remains in poor shape with only a few incomplete pillars standing and iron rods hanging dangerously without proper shuttering.

Addressing the gathering, Dola Singh (college unit president), Jiyalal (secretary), Bhawani (vice president), Mahender Singh Rana (state secretary, All India Democratic Youth Organisation) and Anil Kumar (state president, SFI) criticised both the Congress and BJP governments for their apathetic approach towards the region.

Speakers at the rally said that although the college building project was initiated more than 10 years ago, no significant progress has been made.

They said the construction has not even reached the halfway mark. Only pillars have been erected. Exposed rods without shuttering pose a safety risk.

The speakers did not spare either of the two major political parties. They alleged that during the previous BJP government’s five-year tenure, the project faced neglect despite the fact that the then Chief Minister was from the Seraj constituency and the local MLA from Banjar was also from the BJP.

The current Congress government, which has been in power for the past more than two years, has also failed to address the issue, they said.

Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh had visited the site six months ago and promised to begin construction soon.

However, students and locals claim that no work has been started since the visit, terming it a “picnic visit” rather than a serious inspection.

The protesters have submitted an ultimatum to the state government and the Executive Engineer of the Banjar division, warning that if construction was not started within 15 days, they would initiate mass hunger strike on October 30, vowing to escalate the movement further.

Earlier, a demand letter was submitted jointly by the students and local residents to the college Principal and Executive Engineer.

Most parts of Himachal Pradesh witnessed bright sunshine on Thursday morning, with pleasant weather prevailing across the hills for the past one week. The clear skies and mild temperatures have drawn tourists from across the country, bringing renewed activity to popular hill stations.

According to the meteorological department, the weather in the state is expected to remain dry and clear till Diwali. During this period, both day and night temperatures are likely to stay close to normal. Currently, the state’s average minimum temperature is 0.6°C above normal, while the maximum temperature remains within the normal range.

During the past 24 hours, a slight drop in maximum temperatures was recorded in Shimla, Kalpa and Reckong Peo. Reckong Peo’s maximum temperature fell by 3.4°C to 24.0°C, while Kalpa recorded a decline of 3.0°C to 20.8°C. Shimla’s temperature dropped by 1.4°C, settling at 21.0°C.

The state’s highest maximum temperature was recorded in Una at 31.7°C, followed closely by Hamirpur at 31.2°C and Bilaspur at 29.8°C. In the hill stations, Shimla recorded a maximum temperature of 21.0°C and a minimum of 11.4°C, while Dharamsala registered 26.1°C and 11.4°C, respectively. Kalpa in Kinnaur remained among the cooler areas with a high of 20.8°C and a low of 5.5°C. Manali recorded a maximum of 22.0°C and a minimum of 7.9°C. Among other towns, Solan registered 27.0°C, Mandi 26.4°C, and Kufri 17.4°C as maximum temperatures.

The lowest minimum temperature in the state was recorded at Kalpa, while Bilaspur and Mandi continued to experience relatively warm nights with temperatures above 16°C. Overall, the weather department has reported clear skies and comfortable conditions across the state.

As for the minimum temperatures, Palampur recorded a low of 11°C — about 3°C below normal. The Met Department has predicted a gradual fall in night temperatures after October 22, although daytime temperatures are expected to remain stable.

The department further stated that there is no likelihood of rain in most parts of the state over the next few days. However, higher altitude regions may experience cooler nights and early morning chill as the mercury dips slightly.

The pleasant weather has come as a boost for the state’s tourism sector. Popular destinations such as Kullu, Manali, Dharamsala, and Shimla are witnessing a steady influx of visitors. According to hoteliers, bookings have surged, and most hotels are already full for the upcoming festive season.

For locals, the stable weather brings much-needed relief, while farmers are busy harvesting the paddy crop. Those who have harvested their paddy crop, they have started preparations for the sowing of Rabi crops under clear skies.

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri yesterday said that the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change had given the stage-I approval to the Ropeway and Rapid Transport System Development Project in Shimla under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.

He said that the project would be an important step towards improving urban transport system in Shimla by developing a 13.79-km ropeway being constructed at a cost of Rs 1,734.70 crore to connect major points in the capital city.

“The initiative will help in easing traffic congestion, cutting carbon emissions and promoting clean and sustainable urban mobility both for locals and tourists,” he added.

Agnihotri said that the in-principle approval had been granted for the use of 6.1909 hectares of forestland in compliance with all environmental and legal norms.

The project would generate employment opportunities for local people and provide tourists with a new and pleasant travel experience, he added.

He expressed gratitude to the Central Government and the Union Ministry of Environment for granting approval to this important project.

Environmental protection would remain our priority and all construction activities would follow the guidelines of the Forest Department, he added.

The Governor of Pennsylvania, United States, Josh Shapiro, has reappointed Dr Vasu Singh to the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, her fourth consecutive term on the panel.

Dr Vasu was born at Maharal village in Hamirpur district. Later, her family shifted to Dharamsala in Kangra district.

She has been recognised for her longstanding commitment to public service and advocacy for AAPI communities across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

She is a family medicine physician based at Bethlehem in Pennsylvania. She is affiliated to St. Luke’s University Health Network.

She completed her medical degree from a medical college in Bijapur, Karnataka, and pursued her postgraduation in family medicine at the St. Luke’s Hospital, Pennsylvania. Before moving to the United States in 1996, she had served as a junior resident at the Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi.

In Himachal Pradesh, Dr Vasu has maintained close ties with her native state, contributing to healthcare and educational initiatives in several villages of Kangra district.

She has also been mentoring students in Kangra district and other parts of the hill state, helping them to pursue medical education and training in the United States.

She was the vice-president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin from 2015 to 2017. Dr Vasu has been active in several professional and community organisations in the United States.

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Commission serves as a liaison between the state government and the Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

It advises the Governor on various issues, including health equity, education, language access, public safety, and economic development.

Dr Vasu had previously served two consecutive terms under former Governor Tom Wolf and a third term under Governor Shapiro.

Her reappointment reflects the Governor’s confidence in her leadership and understanding of the diverse social and cultural needs of Asian communities in Pennsylvania.

In a major relief to the residents and tourists, the BRO has restored the Sumdo-Kaza-Gramphu highway for the movement of 4×4 vehicles.

The crucial mountain route, which connects Spiti valley with Manali and Lahaul, was inaccessible since October 6 due to heavy snowfall at the Kunzum Pass.

The closure of the highway had cut off Spiti Valley from Manali and the Lahaul side, causing disruption in connectivity and movement of essential supplies.

The reopening of the road has been welcomed by the local population, who had been facing isolation and logistical challenges due to the blocked Pass.

Padma Dorje, former member of Zila Parishad, Lahaul and Spiti from Kaza ward, hailed the BRO for restoring this highway to traffic. Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana also appreciated the efforts of the BRO.

According to officials from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Lahaul and Spiti, the road has been opened only for light four-wheel drive (4×4) vehicles as of now.

The movement of vehicles, however, will also depend on prevailing weather conditions. Authorities have advised travellers and residents to remain cautious, especially during early morning and late evening hours, when temperatures dip and road surface may become slippery.

Tourists heading to the scenic Spiti valley can now access the region from Manali and Lahaul side. Local businesses and transporters are hopeful that the partial reopening will help revive the tourism-dependent economy, which sees a sharp dip during harsh winter months and prolonged road closures.

BRO teams are now focusing on clearing snow from the road to make it suitable for movement of heavy vehicles.

Officials say that efforts are going on a war footing to widen the road to ensure easier passage of larger transport vehicles. This is crucial for transporting supplies before the onset of harsh winter.

Travellers planning a journey to Spiti valley are advised to check local weather and road advisories before embarking on their trips.

In a significant tribute to one of Himachal Pradesh’s most iconic leaders, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi will unveil the statue of former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh at the historic Ridge Ground in Shimla on Monday.

The event marks an emotional and symbolic moment for the Congress, Singh’s family, and thousands of party workers across the state.

Sonia Gandhi arrived in Shimla on Sunday afternoon, where she was received by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Public Works Minister and Singh’s son Vikramaditya Singh, along with other senior leaders and dignitaries at Annadale Ground.

The ceremony would also see the presence of Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, HPCC President and Virbhadra Singh’s wife Pratibha Singh, AICC in-charge for Himachal Rajni Patil and several other senior party leaders.

The unveiling of the statue, organised by the Raja Virbhadra Singh Foundation chaired by Vikramaditya Singh, had originally been scheduled for June 23, on Virbhadra Singh’s birth anniversary.

However, the event was postponed due to devastating floods and heavy rainfall that struck the state earlier this year.

Speaking to ANI, Pratibha Singh expressed deep pride and gratitude: “It is a matter of immense honour that Smt. Sonia Gandhi is unveiling the statue. Her presence sends a strong message not just to Himachal Pradesh but across India—that the Congress never forgets its tall leaders. This moment is not only personal for our family but a proud occasion for the entire party.”

She further added that the statue’s location, near those of historic leaders like Dr YS Parmar, Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, reflects Virbhadra Singh’s stature and contribution to the state’s development.

Virbhadra Singh, fondly known as the “raja sahib”, served as Chief Minister for six terms, holding office for nearly 23 years, a record that makes him one of the longest-serving political leaders in the state’s history.

His political legacy continues through his family, with both Pratibha Singh and Vikramaditya Singh currently serving in key roles in the Congress.

The state government, under the leadership of CM Sukhu, has ensured elaborate security and preparations for the high-profile ceremony. The unveiling is expected to draw hundreds of Congress supporters, ministers, and grassroots workers from all corners of Himachal Pradesh.

For the Congress, the event serves as a rallying point, honouring a towering leader, reasserting its historical roots in the state and reinvigorating its workers.

Lahaul and Spiti, long known as a cold desert with predictable seasons, is now grappling with unsettling climatic changes.

Once characterised by a mild monsoon and heavy winter snowfall, the region has seen a dramatic shift in weather patterns in recent times.

This year, unseasonal heavy snowfall in the first week of October has devastated farmers, particularly those dependent on apple cultivation.

The snow came at a critical time, just when the apple crop was ready for harvesting. Instead of collecting the fruit, farmers watched in despair as their apple-laden trees buckled under the weight of snow, damaging fruit and trees.

Orchards in the Lahaul valley have suffered severe losses and many farmers have reported up to 80 per cent crop damage.

“This is the worst we have seen in years,” says Ramesh Rulba, a local farmer. “Our orchards were full of apple, ready for picking. Then it snowed suddenly and branches laden with fruit broke under the weight of snow.”

Other farmers like Mohan Lal Relingpa echo similar concerns. “The weather is no longer predictable. We are seeing heavy rain during the monsoon, less snow during the winter and now early snowfall in October. How do we plan our agricultural activities in such conditions?”

Many residents and farmers believe that the climatic shifts accelerated after the opening of the Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway in October 2020.

The opening of the tunnel led to a drastic increase in the tourist inflow into Lahaul from Manali, influencing the local environmental conditions.

While scientific studies are yet to confirm a direct link, locals are convinced that the ecological balance has been disturbed.

Former Lahaul-Spiti MLA Ravi Thakur and present MLA Anuradha Rana have also raised concern over melting glaciers and rapid climatic shifts in the district. Both leaders have demanded a scientific study to assess the impact of these changes and explore mitigation strategies.

“The melting of glaciers and these erratic weather patterns must not be ignored,” says Ravi Thakur. “The livelihood of our farmers is at stake. We need data, research and above all, a plan,” he adds.

Traditionally, the cold desert climate of Lahaul and Spiti ensured a stable farming environment with predictable snow-fed irrigation and well-timed seasons.

But now, frequent heavy monsoonal rain and reduced winter snowfall have become a norm, disrupting this balance and threatening the sustainability of agriculture in the district.

Apple farming forms the economic backbone of the region but the recent snowfall has dealt a major blow to the local economy. The affected farmers are demanding compensation and long-term support from the government.

Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi arrived in Shimla on Sunday afternoon. She will attend the unveiling of the statue of Virbhadra Singh, who served as Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister six times, at Daulat Singh Park on the historic Ridge on Monday.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri and Public Works Minister Virbhadra Singh’s son Vikramaditya Singh, along with other dignitaries, welcomed Gandhi at Annadale Ground here.

Earlier in the day, the CM inspected the preparations for the statue unveiling and issued necessary directives to ensure security arrangements for the event, a statement said.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the chief minister, the deputy chief minister, the state party in-charge Rajni Patil, and HPCC president Pratibha Singh are expected to attend the event.

Virbhadra Singh first took office as Chief Minister on April 8, 1983, and served for nearly 23 years and 300 days. The statue’s unveiling was initially planned for his birth anniversary on June 23, but was postponed due to the pre-occupation of central leaders.

The invitation for the ceremony was extended by Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, who is also the chairman of the Raja Virbhadra Singh Foundation, the event’s organiser.

The statue will be situated near that of Dr YS Parmar, the first chief minister of Himachal Pradesh, as well as other notable figures, including Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose statues are also installed on the Ridge.

General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, yesterday said that the Indian defence forces followed the principle of “Dharamyudh” during Operation Sindoor.

General Dwivedi, while speaking as the chief guest at the centenary celebrations of Rashtriya Military School (RMS), Chail, said that our forces hit only the terrorist hideouts and refrained from hitting civilian and military targets.

He lauded the contributions of the oldest of five Rashtriya Military Schools, which come under the direct control of the Defence Ministry. General Dwivedi said that the Chail school had produced several outstanding defence officers and its alumni had carved out a name for themselves in diverse fields.

He expressed hope that the cadets of these schools would attain great heights and urged them to uphold the values of their institutions and carry forward their proud legacy with renewed zeal and responsibility.

The event commenced with the inauguration of the Centenary Gate at the historic Cricket Stadium at Chail, also the highest cricket ground of the world, as a symbolic tribute to the school’s enduring legacy of honour, tradition, and service to the nation.

Principal Vimal Kumar Gangwal Jain expressed gratitude to the chief guest and other distinguished dignitaries for their presence at the historic centenary celebrations.

He presented the annual report highlighting the school’s academic excellence, co-curricular achievements, sports accomplishments and major milestones attained during the centenary year. His address also reflected upon the remarkable century-long journey of the RMS, Chail, in shaping young cadets into disciplined leaders and responsible citizens.

General Dwivedi released a Special Cover commemorating 100 years of the RMS, Chail, followed by the unveiling of the first edition of The Centennial Chroncile.

The ceremony also featured prize distribution, honouring excellence and achievement among the cadets. Cadet Nikhil Pratap Singh of Class XII was declared the Best Senior Cadet, Cadet Aryan Singh of Class IX was adjudged the Best Junior Cadet, while Cadet Aradhya of Class VIII was adjudged the Best Girl Cadet. The Mithila House was awarded the Best Junior House and the Ujjain House was declared the Best Senior House.

The principal of the school presented a memento to the chief guest, commemorating his gracious presence on this historic occasion. General Dwivedi presented a special Centenary Trophy to the school in recognition of its 100 years of excellence, service and nation-building.

General Dwivedi led a drive to plant 100 saplings under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, marking a green tribute to 100 years of service and sacrifice. Lt Gen MK Katiyar, Army Commander, Major Gen Prince Duggal, Major Gen VK Bhat, Gurcharan Singh Bhogal, senior most Georgian; and Manmohan Sharma, Deputy Commissioner, Solan, were among the dignitaries who attended the grand centenary celebration.

A heart-stopping moment from the Dhauladhar mountains in Himachal Pradesh has taken social media by storm after a massive snow avalanche was caught live on camera.

The breathtaking video, filmed near the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha building in Tapovan, Dharamsala, has left viewers awestruck and alarmed in equal measure.

The Dhauladhar range, which has turned into a pristine white following recent snowfall, has been drawing tourists and locals eager to capture the winter charm in large numbers.

On October 7, around 5 pm, two women were shooting a casual reel against the snow-clad backdrop — unaware that nature was about to put on a rare and terrifying show. As the camera focused on the majestic peaks, a huge portion of the mountain suddenly broke loose, sending tons of snow tumbling down in a roaring avalanche.

The dramatic footage, posted on social media, has since gone viral with thousands of views and shares. The netizens described it as “nature’s fury caught live,” calling it both “thrilling” and “terrifying.”

Eyewitnesses from nearby Dharamsala and Palampur said the avalanche could be seen even from the foothills, with a white plume of snow cascading down the slopes of the Dhauladhar range.

After four days of heavy snowfall resulting in road blockades, the BRO has restored several key routes in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul and Spiti district, bringing much-needed relief to residents and stranded commuters.

Among the most significant roads reopened is the strategically important Manali-Leh highway, which had been blocked beyond Darcha due to intense snowfall at Baralacha Pass. The route is crucial not only for civilian movement but also for defence purposes.

A large number of vehicles had been stranded at Darcha for the past four days, unable to proceed towards Leh. Their drivers and occupants breathed a sigh of relief today as BRO teams cleared the route, allowing vehicles to resume their journeys.

Similarly, the Darcha–Shinkula–Padum road, another vital stretch connecting the Lahaul valley of Himachal Pradesh with the Zanskar valley of Union Territory Ladakh, has been restored.

This road serves as an alternative and strategic link to Ladakh and is considered vital for both defence preparedness and local connectivity. Its reopening is expected to significantly ease travel and transport bottlenecks in the region.

The Udaipur–Tindi–Kadhu Nullah road, which connects Lahaul valley with the remote Pangi region of Chamba district, has been cleared for traffic.

This road is particularly important for intra-district movement and sending supplies to the far-flung tribal areas. The restoration of this route will aid in smooth movement of goods, emergency services and local commuters.

Despite these significant achievements, the road leading to Spiti valley from the Manali and Lahaul side remains closed.

The Kunzum Pass, located on the Sumdo–Kaza–Gramphu highway, continues to be blocked due to heavy snow accumulation. Authorities have stated that clearance efforts are going on, but adverse weather conditions are hampering progress.

The restoration of these key routes has brought relief to the residents of Lahaul-Spiti, who had been without essential supplies and transport service for the past four days.

In a significant embarrassment for the BJP, Ram Kumar Bindal, the elder brother of BJP state president Rajiv Bindal, was arrested by the Solan police on Friday for allegedly raping a 25-year-old woman at his clinic on Mall Road here.

SP Gaurav Singh said the woman filed a complaint at the women’s police station on October 8. She reported visiting Bindal’s ayurvedic clinic near the old bus stand on October 7 for treatment of a medical condition.

During the consultation, Bindal allegedly held her hand, pressed her veins, and asked about her sexual health. After she shared her concerns, he assured her of a complete cure and showed her a medical book.

However, Bindal then allegedly insisted on examining her private parts, which she refused. Despite her objection, he allegedly raped her under the pretext of a medical examination.

Following the complaint, a team from State Forensic Science Laboratory inspected the crime scene and collected evidence.

Based on the victim’s statement, forensic findings, and technical evidence, the Solan police arrested Ram Kumar Bindal, a resident of Bindal Colony, Solan, said the SP.

When contacted, Rajiv Bindal expressed shock, describing the allegations against his elder brother as deeply disturbing for the family.

He noted that Ram Kumar Bindal, an 80-year-old with grandchildren, is a highly respected ayurvedic doctor in the state.

Calling the incident a “new low” and suggesting it may be a conspiracy, he urged the police to consider whether an octogenarian was capable of such an act.

The district administration on the direction of the government has constituted a magisterial committee to investigate the aspects of landslide incident that claimed 16 lives at Balughat village in Jhandutta subdivision of Bilaspur district on Tuseday. The committee will be headed by Om Kant Thakur, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC).

While addressing media persons at Bilaspur today, the ADC said the committee would submit its findings to the Deputy Commissioner. He added that a comprehensive report would be submitted after examining all aspects of the incident.

The ADC said the investigation will include all crucial facts related to the accident such as the number of passengers on board, insurance details of the bus and other necessary documents. He stated that the review will also cover the black spots identified by the Public Works Department during the monsoon season.

The ADC further said it would also be taken into consideration that how many black spots were improved and what was the current status of these black spots. He emphasised that all prior information available with the departments concerned about the accident site will be examined and incorporated into the final report.

The ADC paid tribute to the deceased and conveyed sympathies with the bereaved families. He said an immediate relief amount of Rs 25,000 each was disbursed to the affected families. The cases related to the ex gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh per victim are being processed and the process will be completed soon.

Meanwhile, business activity remained suspended in Barthin Bazaar yesterday while people were still in shock following loss of 16 lives of the area. Many families had lost more than one family members in the accident.

Arushi and Shaurya, only two survivors, are recovering.