Heavy Snowfall, Rain Disrupt Life in Himachal; Schools Shut, 250+ Roads Blocked

Orange Alert Issued, Avalanches Reported, Power Supply Hit

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh is grappling with severe weather conditions as heavy snowfall and incessant rain continue to disrupt normal life across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert, warning of moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches and heavy rainfall in lower areas. Schools have been shut, over 250 roads, including four national highways, remain blocked, and power supply is severely affected in multiple regions.

Transport Paralyzed as 250+ Roads Shut

Continuous snowfall and landslides have caused major disruptions to transport, leaving many areas isolated. The worst-hit districts include Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, Kangra, and Shimla.

Heavy snow accumulation of three to four feet has been reported in high-altitude areas such as Keylong, Jispa, Darcha, Udaipur, Koksar, and Sissu. In Chamba, landslides have blocked the crucial Chamba-Jot road, adding to the travel woes.

Schools Closed, More Snow Expected

Taking stock of the situation, the Kullu Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Vikas Shukla, has declared a holiday for all schools and educational institutions. Similar closures have been announced in Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, and Kinnaur.

According to IMD, snowfall and rainfall will continue through February 28, with a brief respite expected on March 1 and 2. However, another Western Disturbance is likely to bring fresh snowfall and rain on March 3 and 4, keeping the state on high alert.

Avalanche Warnings Issued, Police Recruitment Postponed

Avalanches have been reported in parts of Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti, prompting authorities to issue warnings urging residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.

The inclement weather has also forced the postponement of the police recruitment drive scheduled in Solan and Dharamshala.

Power Crisis: 810 Villages in Darkness

Heavy snowfall has damaged power lines, leaving 810 villages without electricity. The worst-hit areas include Lahaul-Spiti, where 50 transformers are down, and Chamba, where 154 transformers have been damaged. Restoration work is underway, but bad weather and blocked roads are hampering efforts.

Travel Advisory Issued

Authorities have advised tourists and residents to avoid traveling to higher altitudes due to avalanche risks and road blockages. The government is working on clearing roads and restoring power, but continuous snowfall and landslides pose serious challenges.

With the administration on high alert, further updates will be issued as the weather situation develops.

Sunil Chadda