Heavy snowfall in Himachal’s Manali, rescue of 700 stranded tourists

Cars are covered in snow during snowfall in Shimla on Monday, December 23, 2024. Photo Credit: ANI

A fresh spell of heavy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh’s Manali on Monday (Dec 23, 2024) left several vehicles stranded between Solang and Atal Tunnel, Rohtang, and tourists trapped in their vehicles for hours.

According to the officials, around 1,000 vehicles were stuck in the long traffic jam, so the police started a rescue operation and around 700 tourists were shifted to a safe place.

Also Read:Change in snowfall pattern in Himachal worries environmentalists

Footage from the area showed commuters and drivers helping to navigate their vehicles as the snowfall continued. The local administration has also coordinated the rescue work. The situation seems to be aggravated by the crowds of tourists who come to celebrate Christmas and New Year in the snow-covered mountains.

Boosting local tourism after covid

Earlier, Shimla was blanketed in a pristine sheet of snow, bringing new hope and joy to the city. The mesmerizing snowfall, which started two weeks after the first snowfall on December 8, has not only delighted visitors, but also revived the enthusiasm of the local tourism industry, which is struggling to recover from the losses caused by Covid-19. 19 Epidemic.

Enchanted by the beauty of the snow-capped mountains, tourists are extending their stay making this season a season of joy and celebration for all. This unexpected snowfall has sparked excitement among those dreaming of a “white Christmas.”

Many tourists, initially planning to leave, have decided to return, soaking in the winter charm of Shimla. Meanwhile, local businesses, especially in the tourism and hospitality sectors, are optimistic about the extended tourist season, hoping to make the most of this enchanting winter magic. Tourists across the country are delighted by the snowfall, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime experience”.

Hemant, who hails from Rewari in Haryana, described his feelings on seeing the snowfall. “The snow is a beautiful sight. The weather is amazing. We didn’t expect it at all, but when we woke up this morning there was snow. We had planned to go, but now we decided to stay longer. This is the first snow I’ve seen, and It’s an experience of a lifetime for me.” Hemant said.

Pramod Yogi, a tourist from Faridabad in Haryana, said the feeling was indescribable. “The joy brought by this snowfall is beyond words. It is amazing to experience the amazing beauty of nature for the first time in my life. I urge everyone to visit this place and enjoy. Watching the snowfall has been an exciting experience, and I. To witness everyone here and enjoy. I recommend it,” he said.