Severe snowfall disrupts life in Manali, Hubballi tourists await relief amid weather uncertainty
Hubballi/Manali: Manali is witnessing intense snowfall for the third consecutive day, causing widespread disruption and leaving tourists from various parts of the country, including Karnataka, stranded. Among those affected are over 27 tourists from Hubballi who travelled to the hill station last week, only to find themselves confined indoors due to extreme weather conditions.
The group, comprising businesspersons, professionals and journalists from Hubballi, had planned a short holiday to experience Manali’s famed winter landscape. After touring the region’s snow-clad mountains, they were scheduled to return to Karnataka. However, relentless snowfall and sudden drops in temperature have forced them to remain indoors at the Antil Valley Resort.
Heavy snowfall has resulted in blocked roads, slippery surfaces and limited visibility, prompting authorities to halt vehicular movement in several areas. Snow accumulation on parked vehicles and rooftops has further highlighted the severity of the situation. Tourists have been advised to stay indoors as a precautionary measure until weather conditions improve.
Officials have confirmed that snowfall has impacted several districts of Himachal Pradesh, damaging power infrastructure and cutting off road links. Emergency teams are working to clear snow from key routes and restore electricity in affected areas. The State Emergency Operations Centre has indicated that a marginal improvement in weather is expected, offering some relief to stranded tourists.
The situation reflects a broader weather pattern affecting northern India. Parts of Jammu and Kashmir have also experienced heavy snowfall and rain, disrupting daily life and essential services. In Budgam district, police and emergency responders recently carried out a rescue operation to transport a pregnant woman to hospital amid difficult conditions, underscoring the strain on emergency services.
Tourism officials have reiterated that safety remains the top priority and have urged visitors to remain patient and cooperate with local administration. They have also advised tourists planning trips to hill stations to closely monitor weather forecasts before travelling.
As the snow continues to blanket Manali, stranded tourists from Hubballi remain hopeful that improving weather conditions will soon allow safe movement and a return journey, bringing an end to an unexpected and prolonged stay in the snowbound hill town.
