Severe weather conditions continue to disrupt transportation in Himachal Pradesh, with 168 roads, including three National Highways, being closed due to heavy snowfall and rainfall, as per the data of the state emergency operation centre.
The adverse weather has particularly affected the higher reaches and tribal areas, which have received a fresh spell of snow, while low and middle hills have experienced intermittent hail and rains.
Meanwhile, the MeT office has predicted a wet spell in Himachal Pradesh till April 4. In a recent incident, a Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus overturned near Maling in the Kinnaur district after skidding on the snow-covered road, fortunately resulting in no casualties, according to an official.
Traffic halts at Atal Tunnel
The situation worsened with heavy snowfall causing traffic to halt at the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang, near Manali. Keylong recorded 3 cm of snow, while Kalpa and Kukumseri received 5 cm of snow in the past 24 hours.
Most of the affected roads, especially those in Lahaul and Spiti, are in difficult terrain, with 159 roads yet to be opened, the officials informed.
Intermittent rainfall, hailstorm in hilly states
Additionally, intermittent rains, lightning, and gusty winds have been reported in Shimla and other areas, making commuting challenging. The hailstorm has added to the difficulties, particularly in Solan.
The Local MeT office had issued an orange warning of thunderstorms accompanied with lightning, hail, heavy rains and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) at isolated places in seven out of 12 districts in the state on Saturday.