Heavy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul and Spiti district has disrupted normal life, causing communication network, electricity, and water supply disruptions for several days. The snowfall began on March 2, blanketing the upper reaches of the hill station in a white sheet.
According to an official from the local administration, speaking to news agency ANI via satellite phone, the recent snowfall has severely impacted the communication infrastructure in the region, with only satellite phones remaining operational. Restoration efforts for communication networks and water supply depend on the restoration of power lines.
The official highlighted the blockage of infrastructure in Lahaul and Spiti, stating that numerous roadways, including three national highways, have been closed due to the snowfall. An avalanche at Tandi Bridge partially buried nearby shops, further adding to the disruption. Restoration work is currently underway on an urgent basis.
The administration, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), is actively engaged in restoration efforts. A total of 346 roads, including three national highways, are currently inaccessible. Moreover, 365 electricity supply schemes and eight water supply schemes have been disrupted as a result of the snowfall.
In Lahaul-Spiti district alone, two national highways and 260 roads are closed, with 155 electricity supply schemes affected. Despite the challenges, restoration work is being prioritized to ensure normalcy is restored as soon as possible.
Over the weekend, Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, experienced a surge in tourists attracted by the pleasant weather conditions. With anticipation of a significant influx, stakeholders in the tourism sector are hopeful for a notable increase in tourism activity as visitors from various regions flock to Shimla.
