Manali, Himachal Pradesh, [24/12/24] – A fresh wave of heavy snowfall in Manali has left over 1,000 vehicles stranded on the Solang-Rohtang route, creating significant traffic jams and stranding many tourists in their vehicles for hours. The snowfall, which began on Monday, has disrupted normal life and caused massive traffic congestion between Solang and the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang, leaving visitors and locals alike in a state of distress.
With the influx of tourists ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays, the situation has worsened, turning what was meant to be a winter wonderland into a logistical nightmare. The authorities, including local police and rescue teams, swiftly initiated a rescue operation. As of now, approximately 700 tourists have been relocated to safer areas, with ongoing efforts to clear the traffic.
Tourists flock to the region each winter to enjoy the snow-covered mountains, and while this year’s snowfall has provided the winter charm many hoped for, it has also posed a significant challenge for the authorities, who are working tirelessly to address the situation.
Shimla Celebrates a Snowy Christmas Season
In contrast to the chaos in Manali, the state capital Shimla is experiencing a more serene snowfall, which has brought a festive spirit to the city. After a two-week gap, Shimla’s streets are once again blanketed in fresh snow, rejuvenating both the local tourism industry and the spirits of visitors.
For the tourism sector in Shimla, the snowfall has brought renewed optimism. Many tourists, initially set to leave, have decided to extend their stay to enjoy the winter charm of the city. This unexpected snowfall has turned Shimla into the perfect destination for those seeking a “White Christmas,” and local businesses are hoping that the extended tourist season will provide much-needed recovery after the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the region braces for more snow in the coming days, both Manali and Shimla continue to witness a surge in tourism, with travelers eager to experience the beauty of Himachal Pradesh’s winter season, even as the authorities work to manage the challenges posed by heavy snowfall.
