Himachal Pradesh is all set to witness a snowy Christmas, as it experienced a magical spell of snow this winter. Mesmerised by the snowy blanket, the footfall has spurred up in various districts of the state. Especially the Atal tunnel has attracted large number of tourists, indeed a popular destination. But due to the extreme weather conditions, the administration has restricted the movement of vehicles beyond the Atal tunnel.
Influx of tourists in Manali and the neighbouring districts
Atal tunnel, Manali, Solang valley and Gulaba are the prominent tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh. Enthusiastic travellers visit the places especially during winter to enjoy the snowfall. Hence the moment the regions started receiving fresh snowfall, the influx of tourists increased considerably. It's definitely a boon to the tourism industry. The count is expected to rise in the upcoming days and months. There has been a hike in the accommodation percentage as well.
Manu Sharma, press secretary of the Hoteliers Association, Manali, stated that, “We witnessed a surge in the tourist influx to Manali after fresh snowfall yesterday. In the coming days, we are expecting an increase in the tourist footfall to Kullu-Manali.”
Gajender Thakur, chief patron of the association added, “The fresh snow is proving to be a boon to the tourism industry. The room occupancy in hotels has increased up to 70 per cent. We are hopeful that during Christmas and the New Year eve, it will increase up to 90 per cent.”
What are the travel restrictions imposed due to the snowfall?
As per the latest reports, the Lahaul and Spiti district administration has restricted the movement of vehicles. The vehicles will not be allowed to move beyond the Atal tunnel towards the Lahaul valley. The decision had to be taken due to the change in the weather conditions that had resulted in heavy snowfall. Roads have turned slippery which is risky for the movement of vehicles.
Weather predictions by the Indian Meteorological Department (MeT) have stated the cold waves will continue for the next few days. Snowfall will continue to occur in Lahaul and Spiti, Shimla, Chamba and Kinnaur.
The new norms
All throughout the year, the Atal tunnel will undergo regular maintenance from 7 AM to 9:30 AM twice a week. The tunnel will remain closed in that duration. Also vehicles will not be permitted to pass the tunnel on Mondays and Thursdays.
Even with the restrictions, the hotels are experiencing several inquiries for accommodation which is a boon. Number of tourists are expected to increase. Thus a good news for the locals who depend on the tourists for their livelihood.
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