A fresh wave of heavy snowfall hit Himachal Pradesh’s popular tourist destination, Manali, on December 23, leaving around 1,000 vehicles stranded and hundreds of tourists trapped for hours between Solang and Atal Tunnel, Rohtang. The severe weather conditions created a massive traffic jam, prompting immediate rescue operations by local authorities.
The snowstorm, which blanketed the region, led to widespread disruptions on key routes, particularly affecting those traveling to and from the picturesque Rohtang Pass. Police personnel and local authorities worked tirelessly to assist travelers, with several officers seen in a video shared by news agencies helping drivers navigate through the thick snow. As the snowfall intensified, the rescue efforts were ramped up, focusing on relocating tourists and clearing blocked roads.
According to officials, approximately 700 tourists were safely relocated to secure areas, where they were provided with temporary shelter and other assistance. The authorities have assured that efforts are being made to restore normalcy in the area as quickly as possible.
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Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cold wave to severe cold wave warning for the state of Himachal Pradesh, predicting that such conditions are likely to persist in some parts of the region from December 23 to 26. As a result, temperatures have plunged drastically, with the cold wave further intensifying the challenges faced by the stranded travelers and rescue teams.
Local authorities have been on high alert, coordinating with the police, tourism officials, and other emergency services to manage the situation. They have advised tourists and locals alike to exercise caution while traveling during the ongoing snowfall and avoid unnecessary movement in areas prone to heavy snow accumulation.
This recent snowfall adds to the already challenging winter season in Himachal Pradesh, which sees large numbers of tourists flocking to the region during this time of year. Authorities have urged everyone to stay informed about weather updates and avoid venturing out unless absolutely necessary.
As the rescue operations continue, officials remain focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by the snowstorm, while efforts to clear the roads and resume traffic flow are ongoing.
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