Stranded Vehicles Near Atal Tunnel Prompt Police Response Over 1,000 vehicles have become stuck near the Atal Tunnel outside Manali following heavy snowfall and ice buildup on the roads, which halted traffic for the second consecutive day. Reports of the stranded vehicles prompted immediate action from Manali Police, who deployed teams to the affected areas to manage the situation. Officers were stationed at multiple points to direct traffic, assist drivers, and help tourists navigating the hazardous conditions. Authorities began relocating vehicles back toward Manali to reduce congestion and lower the risk of additional accidents. Manali's Deputy Superintendent of Police, KD Sharma, confirmed that he was overseeing the operation on-site. "Every possible effort is being made by the police to ensure all individuals are safely evacuated toward Manali," Sharma stated in a statement to news agency PTI. The police plan to clear the road using soil, machinery, and, if necessary, urea fertilizer to melt ice. Sharma emphasized that the priority is to move stranded vehicles and tourists to safety. The operation has continued into its second day, with authorities urging those affected to remain calm and cooperate with rescue teams. Sharma added, "We request everyone to maintain patience and work with the police administration, as the police are committed to your service and safety." The police have also coordinated with the Border Roads Organisation and other agencies to expedite the deployment of additional teams to the site. The incident highlights the challenges posed by severe weather in the region, with authorities working to restore normal traffic flow while ensuring the safety of stranded travelers.#atal_tunnel #manali_police #kd_sharma #border_roads_organisation #atal_tunnel_road
Thunderstorms, hail and rain lash Shimla; fresh snowfall in Kullu, Spiti Heavy thunderstorms, hail and rain battered Shimla and surrounding regions on Sunday, while higher elevations in Kullu and Lahaul and Spiti experienced fresh snowfall. Weather data showed Bhuntar recorded 12 mm of rainfall, followed by Mandi and Manali with 8 mm each. Kufri received 7 mm, Solan 6.4 mm, and Shimla 6 mm. Additional rainfall was reported in Sundernagar (5 mm), Dharamshala (3 mm), and Kangra (2 mm), with Kalpa and Neri receiving 1.8 mm each and Jubberhatti recording 1 mm. Dark convective clouds blanketed the sky throughout the day, reducing visibility in multiple areas. Light snowfall was observed in the upper hills of Manali, including near the Atal Tunnel. Residents navigated the downpours with umbrellas, as seen at the Ridge in Shimla. Over 1,000 vehicles became stranded at the south portal of the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang during the late evening, following disruptions caused by snowfall in Manali’s higher reaches. Officials stated that a police team from Manali arrived at the site to initiate rescue operations, guiding stranded vehicles toward the city. Authorities also requested the Border Road Organisation and other rescue agencies to deploy teams to prevent further vehicle slippage by applying mud and urea to the road. The police urged stranded individuals to remain patient, emphasizing that the rescue efforts were ongoing and that all were safe. Meanwhile, the heat wave affecting plains during holidays is expected to draw more tourists to the snow-covered hills. However, concerns persist regarding potential disruptions in the supply of commercial LPG cylinders.#india_meteorological_department #rohtang_pass #atal_tunnel #shimla #kullu
Atal Tunnel Travel Update: Heavy Snowfall Strands 1,000+ Vehicles in Himachal; 40 Tourists Rescued from Jalori Pass Heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh on March 15 caused significant disruptions, leaving nearly 1,000 vehicles stranded near the southern part of Manali. The sudden weather conditions forced authorities to initiate rescue operations and manage traffic flow as tourists and commuters faced challenges due to the severe weather. Rescue efforts were also underway at multiple locations across the Kullu region, with around 40–50 tourists reported stuck at Jalori Pass. Local police confirmed that traffic was being regulated in phases to ensure safe movement of vehicles. The snowfall was linked to a Western Disturbance, a common winter weather system in the western Himalayas that can still trigger sudden snowstorms even in March. Officials noted that such disturbances contribute to unpredictable weather patterns in the region, complicating travel for those venturing into high-altitude areas. The incident highlights the vulnerability of mountain routes during extreme weather events, prompting authorities to emphasize the importance of preparedness for travelers. Authorities have issued advisories for those planning trips to the Himalayan regions, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions. Key recommendations include being cautious of icy roads, checking weather forecasts, and reviewing traffic advisories before heading to destinations like Rohtang Pass, Lahaul-Spiti, and the Atal Tunnel. These precautions are critical given the potential for sudden weather changes and the risks associated with high-altitude travel. The Atal Tunnel, a major engineering feat, plays a vital role in connecting Manali to Lahaul-Spiti. Opened in October 2020, the 9.#atal_tunnel #himachal #western_disturbance #rohtang_pass #jalori_pass
