Heavy snowfall has severely disrupted life in India’s hill states, with Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir worst affected. Over 600 roads, including national highways, remain closed due to snow accumulation. Traffic jams, stranded vehicles, and trapped tourists have added to the chaos.
Fresh Snowfall Brings Traffic to Halt; Tourists Trapped in Manali, Gulmarg
New Delhi: The weather has taken a sudden turn in the country's hilly states. Heavy snowfall has created extremely challenging conditions in Himachal Pradesh. Over 680 roads, including two national highways, have been closed in the state. The worst impact is being felt in Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Mandi, and Kullu districts. More than 100 vehicles are stranded near Manali, causing significant inconvenience to tourists and locals.
Due to continuous snowfall, roads in Manali, Shimla, and surrounding areas are completely covered with snow. Traffic jams lasted for hours at many places. According to media reports, people were stuck in traffic jams for more than eight hours at some locations. The administration has advised people to avoid non-essential travel and wait until the weather clears.
IMD issues fresh weather update as cold persists across North India; Click for details
The impact of heavy snowfall is also clearly visible in Jammu and Kashmir. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained closed for the second consecutive day. Hundreds of vehicles were stranded in the Jakhani area of Udhampur. According to the traffic police, movement was restricted for security reasons. Thick snow covered areas like Gulmarg and Bani. The temperature in Gulmarg was recorded at minus 12 degrees Celsius and in Srinagar at minus 1.4 degrees Celsius.
Many tourists and locals were stranded due to the snowfall. The administration and army have intensified relief operations. Stranded travelers are being transported to safe locations, and arrangements for food and accommodation are also being made. Repair work is underway on several routes, including the Doda-Kishtwar road.
Weather: Himachal, Jammu & Kashmir to witness rain and hail; Delhi braces for showers
The first snowfall of this season in Uttarakhand has increased the number of tourists in Mussoorie and other high-altitude areas. Hotels are fully booked, and local businesses are booming. Shopkeepers and tour operators are pleased with the snowfall.
The Meteorological Department has warned that snowfall may continue in the coming days. People have been urged to remain vigilant, consult weather information before traveling, and follow government advice.
