After several years, Himachal Pradesh celebrated a magical white Christmas as a blanket of snow covered the state’s mountainous regions. Popular destinations like Kufri, Narkanda, Dalhousie and Solang Nala witnessed fresh snowfall, drawing tourists to the winter wonderland.
Snowfall also graced the higher altitudes of Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Chamba, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, while intermittent rain soaked many parts of the state, including Shimla city.
3 national highways among 223 roads blocked
The enchanting snowfall came with its share of challenges. Over 223 roads, including three national highways, were blocked due to heavy snow accumulation, disrupting travel.
Around 10,000 tourists, including 8,500 near the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang and 1,500 in Kufri, were stranded. A massive rescue operation involving state agencies ensured their safe evacuation, with efforts continuing late into the night.
356 transformers, 19 water schemes affected
The snowfall caused a significant power outage, with 356 transformers failing across the state, plunging many areas into darkness. Additionally, 19 water supply schemes were affected, further inconveniencing residents.
The administration, anticipating similar situations, has restricted the movement of private vehicles beyond Dhalli in Shimla towards Kufri and from Solang Nala in Manali towards Lahaul, allowing only four-wheel-drive vehicles to proceed.
Tourists throng Kufri, Narkanda, Solang Nala
Tourist hotspots such as Kufri, Narkanda, Dalhousie and Solang Nala became snow-laden attractions, while peaks in Kinnaur, Lahaul and Chamba received continuous snowfall.
The scenic Jalori Pass and Sach Pass remain closed due to heavy snow. Despite the challenges, Manali city itself also enjoyed a snowfall spell, adding to the Christmas charm.
The Meteorological Department has predicted clear skies on Wednesday and Thursday, offering a brief respite. However, another spell of rain and snowfall is expected from December 27-28.
An orange alert for extreme cold has been issued for Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur, and Mandi, with dense fog likely around the Bhakra Dam and adjacent regions.
