Heavy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh boosts tourism; 350 roads blocked
PTC Web Desk: Himachal Pradesh experienced snowfall for the second consecutive day on Tuesday, attracting tourists from across the country. Shimla, Kufri, and Narkanda received significant snowfall, with Kufri recording 10 inches and Narkanda up to a foot. The Public Works Department (PWD) is using JCB machines to clear snow from key areas to ensure smooth transportation.
On Monday, eight districts, including Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur, were covered in snow. Tourists were seen enjoying the scenic beauty, dancing amidst the snow-covered landscapes. At Shimla’s Ridge area, local women performed the traditional Nati dance, adding charm to the festive atmosphere.
The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy snowfall on December 27 and 28 due to an active Western Disturbance expected on the night of December 26. Popular tourist destinations like Rohtang Tunnel's South Portal, Kufri, Green Valley, and Mahasu Peak are witnessing a steady influx of visitors. Police were compelled to restrict traffic near Rohtang Tunnel on Monday evening to manage the crowd.
The snowfall has spurred a wave of advance bookings in hotels across the state. Shimla, which had a 25–30% booking rate last week, witnessed an increase to 50–60% by Monday. Hoteliers expect occupancy to reach 90–100% over the next two weeks.
Hoteliers in Shimla said tourists were inquiring about snowfall and making advance reservations. He mentioned that the snow in Kufri and Narkanda was likely to last for 20–25 days, even if no further snowfall occured.
Notably, hotel bookings have nearly doubled due to the snowfall, predicting 80–100% occupancy for the next two weeks. This surge is expected to significantly boost the tourism industry in the region.
In Manali also, there is a huge rush of tourists. Advance online bookings have started, with heavy tourist inflow leading to widespread traffic jams in Manali.
Over 350 roads blocked
Heavy snowfall across Himachal Pradesh has disrupted road connectivity, blocking over 350 roads. Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh assured that extensive snow clearance operations are underway, with 268 machines deployed in affected areas, and 235 roads expected to reopen by Wednesday evening.
The state government has deployed snow clearance machines across snowbound regions, including Dalhousie and Rohru. He provided details of the deployment, stating, “We have 70 departmental JCBs, 96 hired machines, 13 advanced snowblowers, and 13 bulldozers actively working in these areas.”
He underlined the importance of ensuring smooth travel for both locals and tourists during the peak festive season, while also highlighting the economic significance of snowfall for the state.
- With inputs from agencies
