Himachal paralyzed: Snowstorm seals 504 roads, travel disrupted

Saturday, February 3, 2024

Severe snowfall in Himachal Pradesh shuts 504 roads, including 4 National Highways, disrupting travel, electricity, and water supply in the region.

Amidst the severe snowfall, a staggering 504 roadways, which include four pivotal National Highways, have been shut down, leading to significant disruptions not only in electricity and water supply services but also severely impacting travel and tourism in the region.

The State Disaster Management Authority has issued a statement, revealing that the harsh winter conditions have necessitated the closure of 504 roadways across the region, including four critical National Highways.

The detailed account of road closures includes 161 roadways in Shimla, 153 in Lahaul-Spiti, 76 in Kullu, 44 in Mandi, 62 in Chamba, 7 in Kinnaur, and one in Kangra, illustrating the widespread impact on connectivity.

Moreover, it was reported that 674 electricity and 44 water supply schemes have faced disruptions. This situation has compounded the challenges faced by residents and tourists alike, hampering daily life and leisure activities.

In response to the fresh snowfall that blanketed the higher areas of Lahaul-Spiti, snow removal operations are actively ongoing at nine strategic locations within the district.

Through a social media briefing, the Lahaul Spiti police shared crucial updates concerning Saturday’s weather and road conditions within the district. The report included snow depths ranging from one to five feet across nine stations: Keylong, Kaza, Sumdo, Udaipur, Tindi, Koksar, Sissu, North Portal, and South Portal, along with updates on the road situation.

The scenic allure of Himachal Pradesh has drawn a large number of tourists following the New Year, making it a sought-after destination amidst the predominantly foggy conditions engulfing other northern Indian states. The state’s enchanting snowy landscapes and inviting climate stand in stark contrast, attracting visitors seeking the winter experience.

Nevertheless, with travel and tourism severely disrupted, the Himachal Pradesh Police have taken to advising both tourists and locals to meticulously review weather conditions prior to making any travel plans, emphasizing the importance of embarking on journeys only when deemed essential.

Adding to the disruptions, a report from the previous Friday highlighted that 566 roadways, including close to six National Highways, were closed due to the heavy snowfall. This has also led to disruptions in approximately 700 electricity supply schemes across the state, further affecting the region’s tourism sector, which relies heavily on the smooth functioning of its infrastructure and services.

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