Shimla/Narjanda/Manali:
A fresh spell of snowfall has once again breathed life into Himachal’s apple belt. Fifteen to thirty centimetres of snow in the higher reaches has rejuvenated the fragile snow ecosystem. Farmers are relieved.
The much-needed chilling hours are back. Moisture has seeped deep into the soil. Green manure is in place, setting the stage for pre-bloom operations and fertilizer mixing in the coming weeks.
In Chopal subdivision, Kildkin Chardgi recorded over 30 centimetres of fresh snow last night. In nearby Charki, total accumulation has crossed three-and-a-half to four feet at some spots. Churdhar now wears a massive white cap of six to seven feet, as confirmed by the sevadar stationed there.
Khadapathar received around 10 to 15 centimetres of fresh snow. Similar conditions prevailed in Narkanda. Bhagyand, Khadrala and Sungri saw heavy snowfall ranging between 20 and 30 centimetres.
This fresh spell has not only added to the cumulative snow but has also recharged water sources across the Shimla apple belt. Farmers say the chilling and moisture are ideal for apple orchards this season.
In the landlocked Lahaul valley, snowfall varied between 20 and 30 centimetres. Waist-deep snow has been reported from the Chandra Valley near the north portal of the Atal Rohtang Tunnel.
The Border Roads Organisation is working to restore the Manali–Atal Tunnel–Keylong National Highway. Officials say it may take a couple of days before full connectivity is restored for locals and tourists.
For now, Lahaul-Spiti and the Manali–Kullu region are wrapped in a thin white blanket. The valleys look surreal. Snow-laden slopes and silent roads have turned the region into a postcard, drawing tourists and skiing enthusiasts in large numbers.
Road connectivity up to Manali has been restored for 4x4 vehicles from both the right and left banks. However, bus services to upper Manali remain suspended. Slippery roads and thick ice layers are making it risky for heavy vehicles.
Hill stations are buzzing despite the challenges. Tourists are out in the open, throwing snowballs, skating on frozen patches and clicking selfies. Vehicles are skidding on sharp bends.
Many tourists are seen carrying luggage on their backs. Some walk long distances along snow-clogged roads to reach hotels or parked vehicles while checking out.
The massive traffic jams witnessed during the first snowfall are slowly easing. Tourist traffic that peaked three days ago is thinning out.
Yet, a fresh influx has begun with the latest snowfall, proving once again that snow remains the biggest magnet for winter holidaymakers.
Meanwhile, farmers are in a different mood. They are happy, but patient. Now they wait for the snow to clear in the next couple of days. Sunshine has returned.
Clear skies and bright sun have pulled tourists back into open spaces and snowfields.
Laughter echoes across slopes as visitors soak in the thrills and frills of fresh snow, while orchards quietly prepare for the season ahead.
