While monsoons have covered the whole Indian sub-continent, the rainy season can trigger a lot of landslides in the mountains. Landslides can be extremely dangerous and here is a video that shows how a massive rock crashed into a Tata Harrier that was on the road.
The incident happened in Dimapur, Nagaland. It shows that a few cars have stopped due to unknown reasons on the highway. The dashboard footage then captures a few small rocks falling down followed by a massive boulder that comes crashing down and hits the Tata Harrier. The impact crushes the rear of the Harrier.
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However, this video footage, which is the longer version of the clip that became viral earlier shows how passengers came out of the Tata Harrier. No one got injured due to the impact from the boulder and everyone came out safely.
Landslides are a frequent occurrence in the Himalayan region during the monsoon season. Due to the relatively young age of the Himalayan range, heavy rainfall often triggers landslides. It is crucial to remain vigilant while driving in these areas to avoid getting caught in a landslide.
Typically, landslides begin with small stones falling, followed by larger debris such as dirt, rocks, and boulders. Paying attention to the road and being aware of signs of potential landslides is important. Spotting such hazards can be challenging at night, making it even more important to exercise caution.
Can you avoid landslides? There are landslide-prone regions in the mountains that are identified by the administration. However, landslides can happen anywhere and there is no way you can avoid them. The best you can do is not to travel during the heavy rainfalls or keep an eye out, if you must travel.
Driving in the mountains
Mountainous roads present numerous challenges for drivers. In cold conditions, the formation of black ice is a significant risk. This transparent ice forms quickly after sunset and can make the road surface appear wet, posing a slip hazard. Black ice is particularly dangerous, especially when driving at high speeds. It is crucial to reduce speed and drive cautiously when encountering a potentially wet surface, especially after sunset.
Flash floods are another occasional threat in mountainous regions. Although they do not occur frequently, mountain roads often serve as drainage routes for higher-altitude areas. In the event of extremely heavy rainfall, water can flow down onto the roads, posing a risk of vehicles being swept away. However, such occurrences are rare.
Mountain driving presents several dangers, but with careful attention, it can become an unforgettable experience. Concentration is paramount while driving in mountains, and one fundamental rule is to stay in your own lane. Since many mountain roads lack dividers, inexperienced drivers may unintentionally veer into the opposite lane, leading to severe accidents. Overtaking must also be done with caution, especially avoiding blind corners where accidents can be catastrophic.
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