Since the middle of last week, the snowfall in Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh is all that residents and holiday-makers in North Indian hill stations can talk about. The snow has disrupted electrical and transport services, leaving commuters and tourists stranded in Shimla, Kullu and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, while also making for some stunning photographs of a winter wonderland.
While those who made it to their winter holiday destinations in time for the snowfall had reason to rejoice, others were frustrated at being stuck due to heavy rains and snowfall in the upper regions of northern India. A medium-danger warning was issued by the weather department on Sunday for some of the more avalanche-prone districts of Himachal Pradesh, like in Chamba, Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti.
According to news reports, nearly 400 tourists were stuck near Solang and Palchan villages of Manali after very heavy and sudden snowfall on Friday evening. Users shared screenshots of their Google Map navigation systems, which indicated several kilometres as red – snowed under and full of traffic. Social media users also warned others about the dangers of driving in such weather.
Those who weren’t stuck in transit shared pictures of gleaming white landscapes, snowmen and rambunctious snowball fights, a rare treat for those who don’t live on higher altitudes. Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms were flooded with people enjoying their first snowfall.
Away from all the fun, New Delhi suffered from poor visibility as a result of the snow – causing nearly 50 Delhi-bound trains to be delayed, rescheduled or cancelled.
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