New Delhi: A heavy snowfall has brought chaos to Himachal Pradesh, closing at least 177 roads, including three important national highways. The fresh snowfall has left hundreds of tourists stranded. The snowfall, which fell across multiple days, blanketed several districts including Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti and the higher reaches of Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Chamba and Sirmaur.
While the picturesque scenes have boosted tourism, with Shimla reporting over 70 per cent hotel occupancy and a 30 per cent surge in hotel bookings, the sheer volume of snow has created a dangerous situation for many tourists.
The most significant impact of the snowfall has been on road travel. The closure of 174 roads and three national highways, between Attari and Leh, Sanj to Aut in Kullu, Khab Sangam in Kinnaur, and Gramphoo in Lahaul and Spiti, has brought transportation to a near standstill. The situation was particularly acute near the Atal Tunnel, where approximately 500 vehicles were stranded. The rescue teams worked throughout Monday night, successfully rescuing all stranded tourists, Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue and Disaster) Onkar Sharma told PTI Videos.
The severe weather has also claimed lives. Four deaths and several injuries were reported due to accidents caused by vehicles skidding on the snow-covered roads. The administration is still collecting details about the victims.
The impact of the snowfall extended beyond transportation. Power outages affected several areas after 683 transformers malfunctioned, leaving communities without electricity. The heaviest snowfall was recorded in Khadrala (24 cm), followed by Sangla, Shillaro, Chopal and Jubbal, among others.
Manali and Dalhousie also experienced significant snowfall, while lower areas received light rain. The Met Office issued an orange warning for severe cold in several districts and a yellow warning for dense fog. Kukumseri in Lahaul and Spiti district was coldest in the state, recording a night temperature of minus 6.9 degrees Celsius.
