Himachal’s higher reaches draped in white, heavy snowfall disrupts normal life

Himachal Pradesh’s higher reaches have been blanketed in a thick white sheet of snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland.

As the weather cleared on Friday, the snow-covered mountains shimmered like silver under the bright sun.

Several districts, including Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Mandi, Kangra and Sirmaur, witnessed rain and snowfall from Wednesday night to late Thursday night.

While Shimla and other areas woke up to bright sunshine on Friday, the past 24 hours have seen a significant drop in minimum temperatures, ranging 2-4°C below normal. Many areas are now experiencing sub-zero temperatures.

Snowfall disrupts tribal regions, key roads blocked

In tribal areas, heavy snowfall has led to severe disruptions. Hundreds of roads have been rendered impassable and Atal Tunnel-Rohtang remains closed for all types of vehicles.

The Rohtang Pass recorded 120 cm of snow, while Koksar received 75 cm. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has begun restoration work at Jalori Pass.

In Chamba district, snowfall has draped Pangi and Bharmour in a white blanket. Bharmour town alone received three inches of snow, while Pangi headquarters recorded a foot of snowfall, leading to blockages on 21 roads.

Vehicle movement beyond Khadamukh on the Bharmour-Pathankot highway remains suspended.

Restoration work underway in Khajjiar, tourism expected to get boost

In Khajjiar, known as Mini Switzerland, snowfall and rain have disrupted normal life. However, this is expected to boost tourism, as snow-laden landscapes attract visitors.

The Public Works Department (PWD) is prioritising the reopening of the road from Gate to Khajjiar. An official said machines and labour had been deployed to clear the route, ensuring early restoration of connectivity.

First heavy snowfall of the season in Lahaul, Atal Tunnel remains shut

Lahaul has witnessed its heaviest snowfall of the season, leading to difficulties for residents. The Atal Tunnel remains closed from its North Portal to Keylong and Jispa due to 60 cm of accumulated snow, affecting movement across the region.

With weather conditions improving, restoration teams have been deployed to clear highways and key routes, ensuring normalcy returns at the earliest.

TNR