A fresh wave of heavy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh’s Manali has left over 1,000 vehicles stranded and created significant traffic jams along the Solang-Rohtang route. The snow, which started on Monday, has turned the picturesque region into a logistical challenge, as tourists flocked to the area ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays.
According to reports, the area between Solang and Atal Tunnel in Rohtang witnessed a traffic standstill, with many tourists stuck in their vehicles for hours. Local authorities and police personnel worked tirelessly to assist drivers in navigating their vehicles through the thick snow, coordinating rescue operations to ensure the safe movement of stranded travelers.
The heavy snowfall, a part of the ongoing winter weather in the region, has drawn tourists who typically visit Manali during the winter months to witness the snow-covered peaks. While the snow brings joy to visitors, the unexpected conditions have added significant pressure on authorities and rescue teams.
The ongoing influx of tourists arriving for the holiday season has further complicated the situation, as the region witnesses increased traffic and congestion. However, in a positive turn, around 700 tourists have been successfully rescued by the authorities.
While the situation in Manali remains tense, the capital city of Shimla has also experienced a beautiful blanket of snow. This snowfall, which arrived after a two-week hiatus, has rejuvenated both the local tourism industry and the spirits of visitors. For many tourists, it’s a dream come true to witness a “White Christmas” in Shimla, with many extending their stay to enjoy the magical winter atmosphere.
One tourist from Haryana, who had initially planned to leave, shared their excitement, saying, “This is the first snowfall I’ve ever seen, and it’s a lifetime experience for me. We were planning to leave, but now we’ve decided to stay longer.”
Local businesses in Shimla are optimistic about a prosperous winter season, hoping that the extended tourist stay will help them recover from the financial losses suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic. The snowfall has brought renewed hope for the region’s economy, especially in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
With the holiday season in full swing, both Manali and Shimla continue to captivate tourists with their stunning winter landscapes, though the challenges posed by heavy snowfall serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature in the Himalayan region.
Sources By Agencies
