Shimla, Manali, Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, Pangi Valley, and Kullu, India hit by heavy snowfall, blocking roads, disrupting power, and stranding tourists.

Shimla and other high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh were blanketed in fresh snowfall late Monday night and early Tuesday morning, enhancing the state’s winter charm. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued an orange alert for heavy rain and snowfall across key areas, including Shimla, Manali, Chamba, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spit

As per IMD forecasts, moderate snowfall and rain will likely persist until March 4, after which the weather is expected to remain dry from March 5 to March 8. Authorities have urged residents and tourists to stay informed about changing conditions and avoid unnecessary travel to snow-prone regions susceptible to avalanches and roadblocks.

Despite the freezing temperatures, the snowfall has drawn an influx of tourists to prime locations such as Mall Road, Kufri, and Jakhoo Temple, where visitors are relishing the picturesque snow-covered scenery. Manali, experiencing its second significant snowfall within a week, has been transformed into a white paradise, intensifying the winter chill.

However, the heavy snowfall has caused significant disruptions across multiple districts. According to officials, 365 roads, including three national highways, remain blocked due to accumulated snow, while 1,377 power transformers and 269 water supply schemes have been severely impacted. Snow-clearing operations are underway, with authorities working to restore essential services.

Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi confirmed that avalanches had been reported in some areas, but no major loss of life or property has been recorded. In a separate incident, a person who fell into Jodh Nallah near Saach in Pangi Valley was successfully rescued and airlifted to Kullu for medical attention.

Traffic movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been completely suspended following a landslide in the Mehad area of Ramban, exacerbating travel disruptions amid the region’s severe weather. Heavy snowfall in Banihal and continuous rainfall in Bhaderwah have added to the challenges, making road conditions treacherous.

Meanwhile, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has launched the construction of the Bhimber Gali Tunnel on National Highway 144A, a critical infrastructure project designed to enhance connectivity between Rajouri and Poonch. This tunnel is expected to significantly improve year-round access, particularly in challenging weather conditions.

Authorities are actively engaged in clearing the debris from the landslide-hit section of the highway. Commuters have been advised to explore alternative routes until the affected stretch is deemed safe for passage.

Weather Updates: Snow-Covered Banihal & Rain-Soaked Bhaderwah

The latest snowfall has transformed Banihal’s mountain ranges into a white spectacle, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of 3°C and a maximum of 15°C forecasted for the day.

In Bhaderwah, persistent rainfall and misty skies continue to dominate, creating a surreal, cloud-covered landscape. Meanwhile, Doda’s snow-capped mountains, set against the backdrop of steady showers, offer breathtaking views despite the harsh conditions.

Bhimber Gali Tunnel Construction Commences

In a significant infrastructure milestone, BRO carried out the inaugural blast for the 1.1-kilometer-long Bhimber Gali Tunnel on NH 144A. The groundbreaking event was led by Brigadier Neeraj Madan, Chief Engineer of Project Sampark, marking the official beginning of a project aimed at strengthening regional connectivity.

PM Modi Highlights Sonamarg Tunnel’s Strategic Importance

Adding to the region’s growing infrastructure network, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir. During the ceremony, he underscored the tunnel’s significance for connectivity and tourism, particularly for residents of Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh.

PM Modi also noted that while discussions on the project had existed for years, actual construction only commenced in 2015 under his administration and was successfully completed under the current government. The tunnel is expected to boost economic activity and ease travel in the region, especially during harsh winters.

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