Hoteliers Blast IMD Over “Botched” Rain Forecast That Crippled Himachal Tourism. Hoteliers Appeal Tourists to Visit Himachal in Rains as the landscape is lush green sounds of Nature at all its peak...
Shimla/Manali — The hoteliers and travel agents in Himachal Pradesh are slamming the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for its inaccurate weather warning that has led to a drastic dip in tourist footfall in the state for the last three days.
The IMD had forecast heavy rainfall and thunderstorms for the region over the past 48 hours sounding an alarm among the potential visitors , but locals report the weather has remained largely clear and there was no reason for panic and alarm.
Mukesh Thakur, president of the Manali Hotel and Restaurant Association, didn't mince words, describing the forecast as “completely misleading.”
“There hasn’t been a drop of rain in Kullu, Manali, Lahaul, and Spiti,” Thakur said, pointing to the substantial drop in hotel occupancy which plummeted to just 30-40% over the weekend.
In Shimla, the scenario isn’t much different.
Hoteliers there are equally disgruntled, accusing the IMD of causing unnecessary panic.
"It is foggy, misty and dramatic in Shimla today and best time to enjoy the pleasant weather, no dust, no heat", said Sanjay Thakur, a hotel magnet of Shimla.
"IMD and Media should not create panic as it has an adverse impact on tourism industry".
They argue that rather than the torrential downpour forecasted, the region has enjoyed a pleasant spell of weather, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking relief from the summer heat in the plains.
Current data from the IMD corroborates the absence of heavy rainfall in these areas, with only light to moderate showers recorded in isolated places.
"Manali is not experiencing any rains these days except in freak spells", said the hoteliers.
Today’s forecast indicates a similar trend with sporadic rainfall expected, but not the deluge predicted earlier by IMD.
Tourists are currently enjoying the scenic beauty and pleasant climate across Himachal’s popular spots like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Lahaul-Spiti.
Highways and roads are in good condition thanks to year-long efforts by the NHAI, Border Roads Organization and Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department.
"We are ready for any eventuality as we have a coordination with the NHAI, BRO", said PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh. "The works are going on in the state".
With their businesses impacted, hoteliers are urging the IMD to provide more accurate forecasts and avoid creating unnecessary alarm that deters tourists.
They emphasize that Himachal Pradesh remains a vibrant and attractive destination even during the monsoon season.
if one goes by today's forecast IMD has observed a restrain.
Himachal Pradesh Weather: Hot and Rainy Mix Expected
Himachal Pradesh has experienced a mix of weather conditions over the past 24 hours, with temperatures remaining stable and rainfall affecting several areas. Shimla has received mild rains today after 10.00 AM. 
Current Conditions
- Minimum Temperature: Kukumseri recorded the lowest at 12.4°C.
-Maximum Temperature: Bhuntar was the hottest at 36.6°C.
- Significant Rainfall: BBMB received the highest rainfall at 77.4 mm, followed by Kangra (75.6 mm) and Malraon (65.0 mm). Dharamshala saw 30.5 mm of rain.
Forecast
- General Trend: The monsoon is expected to advance further into parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab over the next 2-3 days.
- Warnings: Heavy rain and thunderstorms are "likely at ISOLATED" locations across the state for the next week.
- Specific Areas: Isolated places will experience very heavy rain and thunderstorms with lightning.
Temperature and Rainfall Overview
- Today's Lowest Temperature**: Kukumseri at 12.4°C.
- Rainfall: Berthin (41.6 mm) and Dharamshala (30.5 mm). Other regions such as Shimla and Sundernagar saw milder precipitation.
The IMD has emphasized that weather conditions can change rapidly, and travelers should stay updated for the latest warnings and advisories.
For detailed weather updates, visit the [IMD Shimla website](https://mausam.imd.gov.in/shimla/) or follow [IMD Himachal on Twitter](https://twitter.com/himachalmausam).
