Manali (Himachal Pradesh): Himachal Pradesh witnessed its first major snowfall of the season, with heavy accumulation reported across Rohtang, Baralacha, and Shinkula passes since Sunday night. In several areas, snow depth has crossed half a foot, severely disrupting traffic and stranding vehicles along key mountain routes.
Vehicles heading toward Leh and Zanskar remain stuck in Darcha, while those coming from Leh toward Manali are stranded at Upshi and Sarchu. Although light snowfall began on Sunday, vehicular movement continued until Monday morning, when intensified snow forced a complete halt to traffic across high-altitude passes.
To assist travelers on the Leh-Manali route, the Lahul-Spiti Police had set up a temporary post at Sarchu, but it has now been relocated to Jispa due to worsening weather. The absence of police presence in Sarchu has heightened the risk for stranded travelers. Some roadside dhabas and a temporary BRO transit camp continue to offer limited assistance, but authorities have urged extreme caution.
Tourist access to Rohtang Pass has been completely suspended. DSP Manali K.D. Sharma confirmed that heavy snowfall continues unabated and all tourist vehicles are being stopped at Gulaba. He appealed to tourists not to attempt travel beyond this point until conditions improve.
Meanwhile, the Lahul Valley is witnessing widespread crop damage as continuous snowfall weighs down apple-laden branches, causing breakage and losses to farmers. Local cultivators, including Ajit, Paljor, Ashok, and Dorje, reported significant damage to their orchards. Recent rains had already hit vegetable supplies, and this fresh spell of snow has compounded agricultural distress across the valley.
