The Himachal Pradesh Police safely evacuated over 10,000 stranded tourists from Solang Valley, which has been reeling under heavy snowfall since Friday (December 27). Around 2,000 vehicles were trapped in the area, with only 100 cars remaining, as their drivers were absent. The Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Manali stated that the remaining vehicles were kept on the slippery roads and will be removed once the weather conditions improve. The Solang Valley area is now off-limits to tourists due to the hazardous conditions, and vehicles are being allowed only up to Nehru Kund. Meanwhile, the Atal Tunnel has been inaccessible for the past week owing to heavy snow accumulation. Long queues of vehicles, some stretching up to 15 kilometers, have caused delays of 3-4 hours, leaving tourists frustrated. A few vehicles have reportedly slipped off the icy roads, making the situation even more dangerous.Despite the inclement weather, Manali has seen hotel occupancy rates surge to 60-70%, with most accommodations being fully booked by December 25. The region has been issued a weather warning, with the Western Disturbance bringing more snowfall over the next 48 hours. The meteorological department has predicted light to moderate snowfall in the middle and higher hills of Himachal Pradesh on December 28 and 29.
Dense fog, freezing temperatures, and snow have rendered roads slippery and hazardous, prompting police to advise tourists to drive cautiously and avoid speeding, especially in areas like Kufri, Narkanda, and near the Atal Tunnel.
Temperatures in the state are expected to rise slightly, reaching -4°C in some areas, before dropping again by 2-3°C after three days.
