Popular tourist destinations Shimla and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, along with parts of Jammu and Kashmir, have been transformed into stunning snowy landscapes, bringing festive cheer for visitors celebrating Christmas. However, the heavy snowfall has also caused disruptions, including road closures and accidents.
Shimla, Manali, and surrounding regions have been receiving snowfall, creating picturesque views that have flooded social media. The weather has delighted tourists seeking a ‘white Christmas,’ a rare and cherished experience.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rain and snow at isolated locations in Himachal Pradesh, with the heaviest snowfall expected between Friday evening and Sunday afternoon.
The heavy snow has resulted in the closure of over 200 roads, with Shimla reporting 145 closures, Kullu 25, and Mandi 20. Additionally, 356 electricity transformers are out of service, leaving some areas without power.
Efforts to clear the roads are underway, with Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh confirming the deployment of 268 snow-clearing machines, including two advanced snow blowers.
The snowfall has led to a surge in hotel bookings, but it has also caused safety concerns. Four fatalities and multiple injuries were reported in Himachal Pradesh due to vehicle skidding incidents. Upper Shimla remains cut off from the state capital, with only 4×4 vehicles permitted on slippery roads.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the higher reaches received fresh snowfall, pushing temperatures several degrees below freezing. Srinagar recorded a chilling minus 6.6°C, while Konibal, a village in Pampore, reported the coldest temperature at minus 8°C. Water supply lines froze, and a thin layer of ice formed on water bodies, adding to the challenges for locals.
The region is experiencing ‘Chillai-Kalan,’ the harshest winter period, which began on December 21. The IMD predicts temperatures could drop further by 2-3°C until December 26.
Tourists planning visits to these snowy destinations are advised to check weather updates and road conditions. Authorities have assured that snow-clearing operations are in full swing to ensure safe travel during this festive season.
