Pallavi Sharma
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh’s higher mountain regions have received fresh snowfall, intensifying the cold wave, but the big question on the eve of the New Year remains whether popular hill stations such as Shimla and Manali will also witness snow.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Shimla, a change in weather conditions is likely from Tuesday, with rain and snowfall expected across several parts of the state between December 30 and January 2.
Fresh snowfall has been recorded in Rohtang Pass, Shinkula Pass and the Chandra valley of Lahaul, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures in the upper reaches. While tourists are delighted by the snow in high-altitude areas, lower regions are grappling with cold winds and dense fog.
Fog disrupts life in lower districts
In districts like Kangra, Mandi and Bilaspur, dense fog engulfed several areas on Monday morning and evening, significantly reducing visibility and affecting road traffic. The chill has intensified across the plains and mid-hill regions, even though the day saw some relief after sunshine broke through light cloud cover in the afternoon. By evening, however, temperatures dipped again, adding to the wintry conditions.
Night temperatures in higher reaches have hovered close to the freezing point, further strengthening the cold wave.
Rain, snow likely till January 2
The Meteorological Centre has forecast rain and snowfall in eight mid and high hill districts between December 30 and January 2. Snowfall is likely in higher altitude areas, while mid and lower hill regions may receive rainfall. The impact of a more active western disturbance is expected on December 31 and January 1, which could worsen weather conditions across many parts of the state and cause a further dip in temperatures.
With this system gaining strength, the New Year is likely to begin with cold conditions accompanied by rain and snowfall in several areas.
Tourists eye snowy New Year at Rohtang
Snowfall in the upper reaches has boosted tourist enthusiasm, especially in Manali and surrounding areas. At Rohtang Pass, situated at an altitude of 13,050 feet, tourists may get the opportunity to celebrate the New Year amid snow. The district administration has temporarily allowed the movement of all types of vehicles on the pass, subject to weather conditions.
As per official orders, tourists with valid permits can travel towards Rohtang between 10 am and 12 noon, and must return to Manali by 2 pm from the Madhi check post. Movement will be suspended immediately if weather conditions deteriorate.
Earlier, only four-wheel-drive vehicles were allowed up to Rohtang, but with no fresh snowfall in recent days, restrictions have been eased till January 2. The decision has brought relief to taxi operators, who expect a surge in tourist arrivals over the next two days as people flock to Manali to welcome the New Year, hoping to experience snowfall in the higher reaches.
