Himachal Pradesh has been transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland this month, thanks to heavy snowfall. However, the icy conditions have also brought significant challenges, especially for locals and tourists navigating the treacherous mountain roads.
One alarming incident captured on video shows a small truck slipping uncontrollably down a snowy road in Manali before plunging into the Solang Valley. The footage reveals the truck losing grip on the icy road amid heavy snowfall. The driver—who narrowly escaped—jumped out of the moving vehicle and attempted to stop it but also slipped on the icy surface. Within moments, the truck tumbled into the valley.
Watch the viral video below:
मनाली के सोलांग नाला में बीती रात को बर्फबारी के बीच 1500 गाड़ियों को निकाला गया. इस दौरान एक छोटा हाथी स्किड होकर खाई में जा गिरा.#HimachalPradesh #manalisnow #manalipolice #manali pic.twitter.com/6yV0qX1oeA
— Vinod Katwal (@Katwal_Vinod) December 28, 2024
Similar Mishaps on Snowy Roads
Earlier this month, another accident occurred near the Atal Tunnel, which connects Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti Valley. A Mahindra Thar skidded off a snow-covered road, but the driver managed to leap out in time, averting a major tragedy.
A recent heavy snowfall in Manali left approximately 1,000 vehicles stranded for hours between Solang and the Atal Tunnel. The Kullu police launched an extensive rescue operation, aiding around 5,000 tourists in reaching safer locations. Visuals from the scene showcased officials guiding travellers through the snow-laden roads.
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“Due to fresh snowfall, about 1,000 tourists and other vehicles were stuck in Solang Nala. There were about 5,000 tourists in these vehicles. The vehicles and tourists have been rescued by Kullu Police and taken to safe places. The rescue operation is still going on,” the police posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Disruptions Across the State
The heavy snowfall has caused widespread disruptions in Himachal Pradesh:
Road Closures: Over 200 roads, including three national highways, have been shut. Shimla accounts for 123 closures, followed by 36 in Lahaul-Spiti and 25 in Kullu.
Power Outages: More than 170 transformers have been damaged, leaving large areas without electricity.
Authorities Urge Caution
Authorities have advised residents and tourists to exercise caution while traveling in snow-affected areas. Despite the beauty of the snow-clad landscape, the risks posed by icy roads and disrupted infrastructure remain a pressing concern.
