Meteorological Department predicts snowfall in Himachal’s hilly areas around New Year
Snowfall has once again graced the hills, with higher regions of Himachal Pradesh experiencing a fresh blanket of snow since morning. In Shimla, areas like Khada Pathar, Kotkhai, and Narkanda are covered in snow, causing road closures in Khada Pathar due to increased slipperiness. The Chopal area has also been cut off from other parts.
With the roads becoming slippery, vehicular movement has been halted. The local administration is urging people to be cautious and has advised that in emergencies, help can be sought by dialing 112. Snowfall is also affecting higher regions of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Shimla, Mandi, Kangra, and Chamba, with some areas receiving up to a foot of snow. The Atal Tunnel has been closed to tourists, who are now only allowed to go up to Solang Nala. The cold has intensified with the snowfall, increasing difficulties for people in tribal areas. In Lahaul and other tribal regions, water pipes have frozen, disrupting the water supply.
Kuldeep Srivastava, Director of the Meteorological Department, mentioned, “A western disturbance has become active in the state, leading to rain and snowfall in several parts. The weather will remain adverse in Shimla, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Sirmaur, and Kangra for the next 24 hours. A cold wave alert has been issued for the plains. Due to the snowfall in the upper regions, the lower areas are experiencing a cold wave, and temperatures are expected to drop further in the coming days, leading to severe cold conditions.”
Tourists Flock to Snowy Destinations
The Meteorological Department has predicted snowfall in Shimla and other hilly areas around the New Year. The number of tourists in Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala has increased amidst the snowfall. People from other states are arriving to enjoy the snow, bringing joy to local tourism businesses.