MANALI: Heavy snowfall in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, stranded around 1,000 vehicles and their occupants between Solang and the Atal Tunnel on Monday. Police launched a rescue operation, moving approximately 700 tourists to safety. The snowfall created a long traffic jam, with police and local authorities assisting drivers and travelers in the difficult conditions.
The increased number of tourists visiting the area for the Christmas and New Year holidays contributed to the situation.
Shimla also experienced fresh snowfall after a two-week break, boosting the local tourism industry impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Tourists are extending their stays to enjoy the snow, and local businesses hope for a longer tourist season.
Tourists expressed their joy at experiencing the snowfall. Hemant, a visitor from Rewari, Haryana, said: “The snowfall is such a beautiful sight. The weather is amazing. We didn’t expect this at all, but when we woke up this morning, there was snow. We were planning to leave, but now we’ve decided to stay longer. This is the first snowfall I’ve ever seen, and it’s a lifetime experience for me.”
Pramod Yogi, from Faridabad, Haryana, added: “The joy this snowfall has brought is beyond words. Experiencing the stunning beauty of nature for the first time in my life has been amazing. I urge everyone to visit this place and enjoy it. Watching the snowfall has been a thrilling experience, and I would recommend everyone to come here to witness and enjoy it.”