168 roads closed as snow, rains lash parts of Himachal Pradesh

Digital Desk: The picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh witnessed a dramatic turn of weather as higher reaches and tribal areas received fresh blankets of snow, while the low and middle hills were pounded by intermittent hail and rain. According to the local Meteorological (MeT) office, these wet spells are expected to persist until April 4, adding to the region's wintry charm.

However, amidst the scenic beauty, disruptions occurred, reminding residents of the harsh realities of living in such terrain. A Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus met with an accident near Maling in Kinnaur district, skidding on the snow-covered roads.

Fortunately, no casualties were reported. Meanwhile, traffic grinded to a halt at the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang, near Manali, due to heavy snowfall.

Key areas like Kalpa, Kukumseri, and Keylong recorded significant snowfall, further enhancing the region's winter wonderland allure. However, this also led to the closure of 168 roads, including three National Highways, with most closures concentrated in the challenging Lahaul and Spiti terrain.

Adding to the weather woes, intermittent rains, lightning, and gusty winds swept across the state, disrupting normal life. In Shimla, the capital, and Solan, commuting became challenging due to hailstorms.

The MeT office issued an orange warning, signaling potential thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail, heavy rains, and gusty winds in several districts. This alert underscores the need for residents and authorities to remain vigilant and prepared for further disruptions in the coming days. As Himachal Pradesh continues to embrace the beauty and challenges of its diverse weather patterns, resilience remains key in navigating through these seasonal fluctuations.