Heavy snowfall blankets Himachal Pradesh; Atal Tunnel closed

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh witnessed heavy snowfall over the past 24 hours, blanketing the region in white and intensifying the cold wave. The Atal Tunnel at Rohtang Pass has been closed to traffic as over three feet of snow has accumulated at its north and south portals.

The tribal district of Lahaul-Spiti has been cut off from the state capital, Shimla, due to continuous snowfall since last evening. Sissu and Koksar in Lahaul have recorded two feet of snow, while Darcha and Jispa reported around one foot. Keylong, the district headquarters, received up to eight inches of snow.

A snowstorm struck the region last night, worsening the cold conditions and disrupting connectivity. The snowfall comes after a prolonged dry spell, bringing relief to residents while also posing challenges due to blocked roads and reduced mobility.