Manali and Solang Valley are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. It offers a merge of natural beauty and adventure activities. However, amid the rising cold waves and snowfall, there are significant disruptions in the region, causing over 1,800 vehicles to be stranded on the roads.

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Recently a social media user stuck in traffic warned other people not to visit mountains during this time. On Instagram, a user identified as Chlucky Tyagi posted a video of a traffic jam on the Solang Valley-Atal Tunnel Road, suggesting to people if planning a vacation in Manali or Solang Valley saying, Manali Koi bhi mat aana! (Do not come!)

Notably, the video was recorded at night, showing queues of vehicles on the snow-laden Snow Valley Tunnel route. He posted the video on Saturday, December 28, 2024, stating that additional snowfall is forecast over the next three and four days. This will further worsen the road conditions.

Tyagi further in the video explained that he has been stuck on the road since 10 am and was unsure how they would be able to escape. He also mentioned that an SDM (Sub Divisional Magistrate) vehicle was stalled in traffic.

What Himachal Police say?

However, the Himachal Police claimed that they rescued numerous vehicles and travelers who were stranded on the road due to heavy snowfall conditions. Manali DSP KD Sharma said that a rescue effort has begun after over 2,000 vehicles are stranded between Solang Valley and Atal Tunnel. He also stated that almost 1,800 vehicles had been safely removed, with approximately 200 remaining stranded.

Weather Conditions in Himachal Pradesh

Additionally, Shimla and the higher elevations of Himachal Pradesh have been experiencing heavy rainfall and snowfall over the past few days. This resulted in landslides and substantial disruption in daily life. The state meteorological department has predicted mild to moderate snowfall in the states mid and high hills on December 27-29.

It has also forecasted light rain to continue over this period. Furthermore, it also said that the weather will remain dry on December 30 and 31, with light snowfall and rain continuing in New Year.