Himachal Pradesh: Heavy Snowfall in Manali Leaves Over 1,000 Vehicles Stranded in Solang-Rohtang; 700 Tourists Rescued
Snowfall Causes Traffic Chaos in Manali Amid Tourist Influx
Manali witnessed heavy snowfall on Monday, transforming the scenic town into a logistical nightmare. Thousands of tourists, drawn by the allure of snow-covered landscapes ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations, found themselves stuck in prolonged traffic jams. Reports indicate that approximately 1,000 vehicles were stranded between Solang and the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang, leaving tourists trapped in their vehicles for hours.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Local authorities and police swiftly launched rescue operations, successfully relocating around 700 tourists to safer locations. Visuals from the site captured police personnel assisting drivers and travelers, guiding them through the challenging snowy terrain as flakes continued to fall. The influx of holiday tourists has undoubtedly exacerbated the situation, adding pressure on local infrastructure.
Tourists’ Delight Turns into a Struggle
December to February is the peak season for snow tourism in Manali, with visitors eagerly anticipating snowfall. However, while tourists were thrilled to witness the magical snow-covered vistas, the experience turned into a logistical struggle. Long hours of waiting, freezing temperatures, and congested roads tested the patience of many.
Shimla Basks in Snowy Delight
While Manali battled traffic woes, Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, enjoyed a picturesque snowfall. After a two-week break since the last snowfall on December 8, the fresh spell brought a wave of excitement among both tourists and locals.
Boost for Local Tourism Industry
The snowfall not only delighted visitors but also reignited hope within the local tourism and hospitality sectors, which have been grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The sight of snow-covered hills has encouraged many tourists to extend their stays, turning Shimla into a festive haven.
Tourists Relish a “White Christmas”
For many visitors, the snowfall was an unexpected yet delightful surprise. “The snowfall is such a beautiful sight. The weather is amazing. We didn’t expect this, but when we woke up to snow this morning, we decided to stay longer. This is the first snowfall I’ve ever seen, and it’s a lifetime experience for me,” shared a tourist from Haryana.
Businesses Hope for an Extended Season
Local businesses are optimistic about an extended tourist season, with hotels and cafes experiencing a surge in bookings. The enchanting winter charm of Shimla promises to make this season one to remember for both tourists and the local community.
As snowfall continues to weave its magic across Himachal Pradesh, the contrasting experiences in Manali and Shimla highlight both the challenges and joys that come with being a winter wonderland.