TNR Desk
Hundreds of roads are blocked while snags in power transformers have plunged several parts into darkness as snowfall was experienced in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday (March 5, 2024) evening, bringing with it a slew of challenges for residents and authorities alike.
The South Portal entrance of Atal Tunnel, a vital lifeline connecting Kullu with tribal Lahaul-Spiti district, was closed due to an avalanche. Efforts to clear the snow commenced immediately with machinery deployed for the task.
While Atal Tunnel remains closed to traffic, ongoing snow removal operations aim to address emergency situations. A Manali police official said that the avalanche occurred two days ago, resulting in the closure of the tunnel’s South Portal as machinery from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) cleared snow near the area.
The Lahaul valley witnessed major avalanches on Tuesday, causing disruptions in the flow of the Chenab (Chandrabhaga) river temporarily. Villagers reported significant avalanches in various areas, impacting electricity and water supply across Lahaul-Spiti.
The BRO and the state Public Works Department are actively engaged in restoring roads amidst challenging conditions. Lahaul valley experienced cloudy weather on Tuesday, accompanied by snowfall in higher altitudes. The district administration highlighted the heightened risk of avalanches following heavy snowfall, with multiple incidents reported across the region.
In Kinnaur district, Nesang panchayat bore the brunt of avalanches, resulting in significant damage to 12 apple orchards and two cattle sheds. The panchayat recorded over three feet of snowfall, with avalanches occurring for the first time in Khonachhen Nullah. Despite the challenges posed, March’s rainfall and snowfall are deemed beneficial for agriculture and horticulture activities in the region.
