Heavy Snowfall Strands Over 1,000 Vehicles in Himachal’s Manali; 700 Tourists Rescued

Fresh snowfall in Manali causes massive traffic jams, with police and local authorities working tirelessly to rescue stranded tourists.

December 24, 2024: Manali: A heavy spell of fresh snowfall in Himachal Pradesh’s Manali on Monday brought picturesque beauty but also significant disruptions, leaving over 1,000 vehicles stuck and hundreds of tourists stranded between Solang and Atal Tunnel, Rohtang Pass.

Rescue Operations Underway

Officials reported a massive traffic jam caused by slippery roads and heavy vehicle influx as tourists flocked to the region for Christmas and New Year celebrations. Local police swiftly launched a rescue operation, successfully shifting around 700 tourists to safer locations.

Visuals from the site captured police personnel braving the icy conditions, assisting tourists, and directing vehicles amidst the relentless snowfall. Local authorities coordinated closely to ensure the rescue operations ran smoothly.

Impact on Tourism and Local Businesses

The heavy snowfall has also delighted tourists and revitalised the spirits of local businesses, especially in Shimla. The snow-covered landscapes have drawn visitors eager for a “White Christmas” experience and extended their stays, boosting the local hospitality industry.

Tourists’ Delight Amid Challenges

Visitors expressed a mix of excitement and awe. Hemant, a tourist from Rewari, Haryana, shared, “The snowfall is such a beautiful sight. We were planning to leave, but now we’ve decided to stay longer. It’s a lifetime experience for me.”

Another visitor, Pramod Yogi from Faridabad, Haryana, described his emotions: “The joy this snowfall has brought is beyond words. Watching the snowfall has been a thrilling experience, and I urge everyone to come here and enjoy it.”

Authorities on High Alert

Authorities have urged tourists to remain cautious while traveling in these weather conditions and have emphasized the importance of following safety advisories.

While the snowfall brought travel disruptions, it has also added to the region’s charm, making this festive season truly memorable for visitors and locals alike.

Tags: Manali Snowfall, Himachal Traffic Jam, Atal Tunnel, Solang Valley, Tourist Rescue, White Christmas, Himachal Pradesh Tourism, Snowfall in Shimla, Winter Travel, Indian Tourism.