According to the Meteorological Department, more snowfall and rain are expected in parts of the state, especially in Shimla, starting Friday evening and until Sunday afternoon.
Shimla: Tourist hotspots like Shimla and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, along with parts of Jammu and Kashmir, have transformed into mesmerizing white wonderland after fresh snowfall and temperatures decreased below the freezing point. While the snow has delighted tourists flocking to these hill stations for the Christmas holidays, the heavy snowfall has caused over 223 road closures, a surge in hotel bookings, and four deaths due to vehicle skidding accidents.
According to officials, at least 223 roads, including three national highways, were closed in Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday due to fresh snowfall. The closed roads include the national highways between Attari and Leh, Sanj to Aut in Kullu district, Khab Sangam in Kinnaur district, and Gramphoo in Lahaul and Spiti district, as reported by PTI.
Shimla saw the highest number of road closures, with 145 roads blocked, followed by 25 in Kullu and 20 in Mandi districts. In addition to it, several areas experienced power outages after 356 transformers stopped functioning, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre. Public Works Minister, Vikramaditya Singh stated that the department is prepared for the surge in tourists, with 268 pieces of machinery, including two snow blowers deployed to clear the roads.
According to the Meteorological Department, more snowfall and rain are expected in parts of the state, particularly in Shimla, starting Friday evening and continuing until Sunday afternoon. Heavy snowfall is forecasted for Saturday
