Prateek Tanmay
2 min readJun 18, 2026 07:51 PM IST
Traffic on the Dhalli–Sanjauli Bypass in Shimla was severely disrupted on Thursday after a major landslide dumped large quantities of debris and uprooted deodar trees onto the road, forcing authorities to close the route to vehicular traffic from both directions.
The 34-km-long bypass serves as an alternative route to Kufri, Naldehra and Narkanda, allowing motorists to avoid Shimla city.
According to police, a significant portion of the hillside gave way, covering the road with mud, rocks, trees and other debris. The blockage has rendered the bypass unsafe, prompting its complete closure until clearance and safety operations are completed.
Officials said teams from the concerned departments have been deployed at the site and are working round the clock to remove the debris and restore traffic movement. Heavy machinery has been pressed into service, and efforts are underway to ensure the road is safe before it is reopened.
The closure is expected to inconvenience commuters and residents who regularly use the route. Traffic congestion is also likely on alternative roads as vehicles are being diverted.
In a traffic advisory, police urged motorists to avoid the Dhalli–Sanjauli Bypass until further notice and plan their journeys through alternate routes. Commuters have also been asked to follow directions issued by police personnel deployed at the site to ensure smooth traffic management.
Authorities have advised the public to exercise caution while travelling in the area, particularly during the monsoon season, when the risk of landslides and falling debris increases.
Story continues below this ad
Police said information regarding the reopening of the bypass would be shared once the road is cleared and declared safe for traffic.
