KANGRA MP proposes new line to connect key tourist places
BJP sparks uproar in Himachal Assembly over Kangra bank grant details
Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha witnessed noisy scenes during Question Hour Thursday, with the opposition BJP members leaving the House accusing the Congress government of not replying to their queries on funds released by a cooperative bank. The BJP members were agitated after Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said that information is being collected []
Yellow alert for heavy rain, snow in Himachal on Friday: IMD
A 'yellow' alert has been issued in Himachal Pradesh for heavy rain and snow, with light rain and snowfall already occurring in some areas. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected in Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi districts, and heavy snow in Lahaul and Spiti district on Friday. Rain and snow are likely in various regions from March 11 to 17.
IMD issues 'yellow' alert in Himachal, heavy rain likely in 4 districts on Friday
The India Meteorological Department has issued a 'yellow' alert for heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi districts. Thunderstorms and lightning are predicted at isolated places from Monday to Friday. Snowfall is expected in the higher regions, including Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur districts, while police have advised caution near Rohtang due to snowfall near the Atal Tunnel.
Himachal govt in favour of reservation for women: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasised the state governments support for womens reservations at an International Women's Day event in Kangra District. He highlighted various initiatives, including increased reservations for women in police recruitment, amendments to land laws for daughters, and financial support programs for widowed womens children.
IMD Issues Orange Alert for Heavy Rain and Snow in Himachal Today
NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rain and snowfall in some parts of Himachal Pradesh on March 3. Thunderstorms and lightning are also expected in certain areas. Even though the weather was dry on Sunday and temperatures increased, the alert has been issued due to the effects of recent heavy snowfall and rain on February 26, 27, and 28. The warning is mainly for Chamba, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spiti districts. Road Closures and Disruptions Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said that repair work is in full swing, but 365 roads (including 3 national highways) are still blocked. Furthermore, 1,377 power transformers and 269 water supply schemes have been affected. The Revenue Minister also said that some avalanches occurred, but thankfully, there were no casualties or property damage. However, a man named Sant Ram fell into Jodh Nallah near Saach in the tribal Pangi Valley. Local people rescued him and helped him reach Saach. A government helicopter then airlifted him to Kullu, where he was admitted to the hospital. Rainfall and Temperature Update Some areas received light rain: Aghar 17 mm Pachhad 15 mm Jaton Barrage 3.4 mm Kufri 3.2 mm Chamba 2 mm The rest of the state had dry weather, and Una was the hottest place, recording 28.4C, which is 2.3C above normal. The coldest place was Keylong, with a low temperature of -11.8C. Weather Forecast The IMD predicts: March 3 Light to moderate rain or snow in some places. March 4 Moderate rain or snow in many areas. March 5-8 Dry weather expected. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir will also experience different weather patterns over the next seven days, with changes in temperature, humidity, and sky conditions. The IMD advises people to keep track of forecasts for better planning.
Heavy rains, snowfall triggers landslides in Himachal, 112 roads blocked in Kullu
Heavy rains and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh caused significant disruption, including landslides and roadblocks, particularly in Kullu, Kangra, and Chamba districts. Several houses and vehicles were damaged, and essential services like electricity and water supply were affected. Efforts are ongoing to clear the debris and restore normalcy.
Heavy Rains, Snowfall Cause Chaos in Himachal, Roads Blocked, Vehicles Swept Away
KULLU - HIMACHAL PRADESH: Heavy rains and snowfall have caused major problems in Himachal Pradesh, leading to landslides and road closures. Many highways and key roads were blocked on Friday, making it difficult for people to travel. For the third day in a row, the state has been experiencing heavy rain and snowfall, affecting normal life. Around 200 roads have been shut down, cutting off areas like Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Shimla from the rest of the state, officials said. Due to the bad weather, all schools and colleges have been closed in Chamba and Manali. However, CBSE board exams will still take place as planned. Authorities have also warned people about possible avalanches in higher regions above 2,300 meters and advised them to stay indoors and take precautions. Many major roads are blocked due to snow. The Hindustan-Tibet road (NH-5) is closed at Narkanda, while roads connecting Dodra-Kwar and Deha-Chopal are also not accessible. The Theog-Hatkoti Highway near Kharapathar village, which is at an altitude of 8,770 feet, has also been shut down. In Kullu, heavy rains have flooded areas like Akhara Bazaar and Gandhi Nagar. Water from overflowing rivers entered the streets, damaging parked vehicles. Authorities have stopped vehicle movement beyond Nehru Kund because of fresh snowfall in places like Solang Nallah, Gulaba, Atal Tunnel, and Rohtang. A landslide at Banala has also blocked the Manali-Kiratpur National Highway, and work to clear it has been delayed due to falling rocks, police said. Many roads in remote valleys remain blocked due to snowfall and continuous rainfall. View this post on Instagram A post shared by News Track Live (@newstracklive) According to weather reports, Kothi received the highest snowfall of 120 cm by 8:30 am, followed by Khadrala (115 cm), Keylong (75 cm), Kalpa (46 cm), Kukumseri (38.8 cm), Sangla (23.5 cm), and both Nichar and Moorang (15 cm each). Lower and mid-hill areas are also facing problems due to heavy rains. Seobagh recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 113.2 mm, followed by Bhuntar (113.2 mm), Banjar (112.4 mm), Jogindernagar (112 mm), Salooni (109.3 mm), Palampur (99 mm), Chamba (97 mm), Baijnath (75 mm), Kangra (74 mm), Rohroo (70 mm), Kufri (59 mm), and Shimla (54.5 mm). The sky remains dark and cloudy, and the meteorological department has issued an orange alert for heavy snowfall in Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher areas of Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts. Light to moderate rain is expected, with heavy rainfall at some isolated places in Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts.
Heavy snowfall disrupts roads, power supply in Himachal Pradesh
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh has been severely impacted by heavy snowfall and widespread rainfall, leading to the closure of more than 200 roads and disruptions in power and water supply. Several areas, particularly in the districts of Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Chamba, have been cut off from the rest of the state. The weather conditions have also forced the closure of educational institutions in Lahaul and Spiti and Chamba districts. Due to heavy snowfall, several key routes, including Darcha-Shinkula, Darcha-Sarchu, Koksar-Manali via Rohtang, Koksar to Losar via Kunzum, and Atal Tunnel to Manali, Tindi, and Udaipur roads, have been blocked. Authorities have advised travelers to avoid these routes for safety reasons. An avalanche alert has been issued, and the general public is urged to refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. The police in Lahaul and Spiti stated, The general public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel and refrain from visiting high-altitude areas prone to avalanches. In the Dodra-Kwar region of Shimla district, heavy snowfall continues, shutting down all roads leading to the valley. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange warning for Lahaul and Spiti, Chamba, Kinnaur, and areas above 2,300 meters, warning of an increased risk of avalanches in higher-altitude regions. The precipitation is expected to continue with the same intensity throughout the day. Meanwhile, panic spread among residents of Manikaran Valley in the Kullu district following the formation of an artificial lake in Jeera Nallah in Tosh village, which has created a flash flood threat. Authorities have evacuated people living downstream to safer locations. The state also remains on high alert for avalanches following fresh snowfall in the region. In Shimla district, 12 roads have been closed due to the harsh weather. The Hindustan-Tibet Road (National Highway 5) has been shut down near Narkanda due to slippery conditions caused by heavy snowfall. As a result, traffic has been diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri and Sunni. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for light to moderate snowfall at most places, with isolated spells of very heavy snowfall expected in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti, as well as in the higher reaches of Chamba, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Kangra, and Manali. Since last night, continuous rainfall has been recorded in Shimla. A yellow alert has been issued for more rain and light snowfall in the city and surrounding areas. However, educational institutions in the state capital have remained open. Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti recorded the lowest temperature at night, dropping to minus 4.5 degrees Celsius, while Nahan was the warmest during the day with a high of 23.2 degrees Celsius.
Orange warning issued for heavy snow, rains in parts of Himachal
The local MeT has issued an orange warning of heavy to very heavy rains and snow at isolated places in Mandi, Kangra, Kullu and Chamba districts
Orange warning issued for heavy snow, rains in parts of Himachal Pradesh
Light to moderate snow continues in isolated areas of higher Himachal Pradesh, with intermittent rains in the middle and low hills. An orange warning has been issued for heavy snow and rain on Thursday and Friday in several districts, including Mandi and Kangra.
Heavy snowfall cuts off Lahaul Valley, Manali-Leh Highway closed
CHANDIGARH: The Manali-Leh Highway has been closed for vehicular traffic following heavy snowfall in higher areas of several districts in Himachal Pradesh, cutting off Lahaul Valley from the rest of the state and leaving both locals and tourists stranded. With snow accumulation reaching up to 60 cm on the road connecting the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel to Keylong-Jispa, the route has become impassable. The tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti is experiencing severe weather conditions. In response, the Lahaul-Spiti police have issued a travel advisory urging all travellers to avoid the Manali-Leh route until further notice. The closure has significantly impacted transportation, halting vehicular movement on the affected stretch. Road users have been advised to remain patient and stay updated through official channels regarding road conditions and weather. Tourists planning to travel in or out of the area have been urged to adjust their plans accordingly. Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul-Spiti, Rahul Kumar, stated that efforts to restore road connectivity would begin as soon as weather conditions improve. The Border Roads Organisation and the PWD are on standby and will deploy their workforce and machinery to clear key roads once the weather permits, he said. Kumar also cautioned people against unnecessary travel, particularly into high-altitude areas prone to snow avalanches. Following heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Manali, roads beyond Nehru Kund have been closed to most vehicles. Additionally, National Highway 5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road) has been shut at Narkanda due to snow, with traffic now being diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri. Since Wednesday night, Shilaroo recorded 5 cm of snowfall, followed by Gondla with 3 cm, Kalpa 1.3 cm, and Sangla 0.3 cm. The upper areas of Manali, Narkanda, Rohru, Chansal, and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti also witnessed snowfall. Several areas across the state received light to moderate rainfall, with Dalhousie recording the highest at 22 mm, followed by Sundernagar with 21 mm, Bharmour 18.2 mm, Dharamshala 16.8 mm, Manali 16 mm, Mandi and Kangra 14.4 mm each, Bhuntar 13.6 mm, Bilaspur 13 mm, and Una 10 mm. The state capital, Shimla, was lashed by thunderstorms and received mild rainfall. The Met Office has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms in the districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi on Thursday. It also warned that a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from 24 February onwards. The state has recorded an average rainfall of 33 mm during the winter season from 1 January to 20 February, significantly below the normal of 154 mma deficit of 79 per cent.
IIT study: 40% of Himachal at high risk of landslides, floods & avalanches
CHANDIGARH: Forty-nine per cent of Himachal Pradesh is prone to medium-risk and 40% to high-risk landslides, floods and avalanches, according to a recent study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Ropar. The conclusions were presented at the Indian Cryosphere Meet (ICM) held at the IIT-Bombay last week, attended by 80 glaciologists, researchers, scientists, and other experts from around the world. The IIT is now conducting similar studies in the Northeast, J&K and Uttarakhand, adding another criterion to examine GOLF (Glacier Lake Out Burst Flood). MTech scholar Daishisha Lawphniaw conducted the study under the guidance of Reet Kamal Tiwari from IIT-Ropar, using GIS-based mapping, the study classified hazard-prone regions. Tiwari told this newspaper, The states upper reaches are more prone to avalanches, whereas the middle and lower parts of the state are more prone to flood and landslides. The study stated that high-altitude areas in Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti districts are highly prone to avalanches, while Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Chamba districts are prone to flood and landslides. The study highlights that steep mountain slopes and elevations above 3,000 meters are at the highest risk. Higher-altitude regions with slopes between 16.8 degrees and 41.5 degrees are more likely to experience both avalanches and landslides. Areas with mean slopes ranging from 5.9 degrees to 16.44 degrees and mean elevations up to 1600 meters are predominantly prone to both landslides and floods, whereas the combined occurrence of avalanches and landslides is most likely in regions with slopes of 16.86 degrees to 41.54 degrees at higher elevations, states the study. The study highlights importance of knowledge about the cascading effects of disasters. Hill tale 49% prone to medium-risk High-altitude areas in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti highly prone to avalanches Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Chamba prone to flood and landslides Steep mountain slopes and elevations above 3,000 metres at highest risk Higher-altitude regions with slopes between 16.8 degrees and 41.5 degrees more likely to experience both avalanches and landslides Areas with mean slopes and elevations predominantly prone to both landslides and floods
Took loan to send him abroad: Family of lone Himachal deportee
Rohit, the lone deportee from Himachal Pradesh, returned to his village in Kangra district after being sent back from the US. His family had borrowed Rs 45 lakh to send him abroad for a better future, but his journey ended in deportation due to illegal immigration. Rohit's mother, devastated by the debt, faced further distress after fraud by an agent who swindled money during his journey from India to the US via Mexico.
Expansion Of Railways, Airports, Employment Opportunities: Himachal's Expectation From Union Budget
Shepherds and weavers in Baijnath, Kangra, seek more funds for rural employment and support for local cooperative societies.
Himachal CM Sukhu announces 25,000 new jobs, Rs 680 crore start-up scheme on 55th statehood day
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the government plans to create 25,000 new posts for which recruitment will start soon and added that the government has fulfilled six out of the ten promises made during the assembly elections on Saturday, Himachals 55th statehood day. He said that the financial situation is such that loans are being taken to repay the principal and interest taken by the previous government. Addressing the gathering at the 55th statehood day celebrations held at Baijnath in Kangra district on Saturday, Sukhu said, Although the current government has been in power for only two years, the situation is such that loans are being taken to repay the principal and interest of previous debts. In the last two financial years, the government has taken a loan of Rs 30,080 crore, out of which Rs 18,854 crore, approximately 63 per cent of the total, has been used to repay the principal and interest on loans taken by the previous government, he added. He said that during the BJPs tenure in 2021-22, the state received a revenue deficit grant of Rs 10,249 crore, which reduced to Rs 6,258 crore in 2023-24 and is expected to drop further to Rs 3,257 crore in the next financial year. Despite financial constraints, he emphasised the governments focus on resource generation rather than dependency on loans. He stated that the current government has generated an additional Rs 2,200 crore through reforms in excise, tourism, power, and mining policies, marking a first in the states history. Sukhu said that the previous government did not think about increasing Himachal Pradeshs revenue. Our government has initiated significant efforts to transform the state through Vyavstha Parivartan. By strengthening sectors such as dairy, natural farming, agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, and the rural economy, we are creating opportunities for employment and self-employment at the village level, he said. Sukhu highlighted employment generation as a priority, with over 42,000 jobs provided in two years compared to 20,000 in five years under the previous BJP government. Over 12,500 posts have been filled in the government sector, including 3,202 posts in the elementary education department, and approximately 8,000 more will be filled in 2025. This includes 2,095 TGT, Shastri, and JBT positions, as well as 245 special educators and 6,297 NTT teachers. Whereas, the higher education department has filled 1,097 posts, and 1,337 employees have been regularised. Recruitment is underway for 769 computer teachers and others through limited direct recruitment, he added. He said that in the police department, recruitment for 1,088 constables has begun, and results for 2,061 forest guards have been announced. Additionally, 3,000 posts in the Jal Shakti Department have been filled. Sukhu said that previous recruitment, which was struck due to scams during the previous BJP regime has been cleared, filling 2,273 posts. Furthermore, the government plans to create 25,000 new posts across various categories, providing opportunities for unemployed youth with diverse qualifications to serve the state, he added. Sukhu said that the state government has fulfilled six out of the ten promises made during the assembly elections. The Old Pension Scheme (OPS) has been restored for 1.36 lakh government employees, while the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana has been launched, providing eligible women an honorarium of Rs 1500 per month in a phased manner. The guarantee of starting English-medium education from the first grade in all government schools has been fulfilled. Modern and well-equipped Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding Schools are being established in all 68 assembly constituencies in a phased manner. Under the Dr Y S Parmar Vidyarthi Rin Yojana, students are being offered education loans at a 1 per cent interest rate for studies in India and abroad, he said. Sukhu said that the government has also launched the Rs 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-Up scheme for youth. A minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 40 per kg for wheat and Rs 30 per kg for maize grown through natural farming was being provided, while the MSP for cow milk has been increased from Rs 32 to Rs 45 per liter, and for buffalo milk, it has been raised from Rs 47 to Rs 55 per liter. To benefit small farmers and livestock rearers, the government has launched a scheme to purchase cow dung at Rs 300 per quintal, fulfilling another key promise of the Congress Pratigya Patra, he said. Sukhu stated that 2000 individuals have voluntarily given up electricity subsidies following the governments appeal. He said that the government is also developing Himachal Pradesh as a tourist destination in a big way.
Himachal Pradesh govt approves study on cannabis cultivation
Dharamshala: The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet on Friday, January 25, approved a pilot study on cannabis cultivation to evaluate and recommend the future roadmap for the products industrial and medicinal use. The pilot study would be jointly undertaken by Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur, district Kangra and Drb YS Parmar University of Horticulture, Nauni, district Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
CHANDIGARH : Himachal Pradesh will become the third state in India, after Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh, to undertake controlled, legal cultivation of cannabis for industrial and medicinal use. The state hopes to generate additional revenue of about Rs 500 crore per annum. Due to its suitable agro-climatic conditions, cannabis grows naturally in regions such as Kullu, Manali, Mandi, Chamba, Shimla, and Sirmaur. The state cabinet approved the proposal yesterday. The cabinet has authorised the revenue department to undertake controlled cannabis cultivation in the state and to conduct a pilot study on cannabis cultivation, which will be jointly carried out by two universities: Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Krishi Vishvavidyalaya at Palampur in Kangra district, and Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture at Nauni in Solan district. The study will assess and recommend the future roadmap for this initiative, and the agriculture department has been designated as the nodal agency for cannabis cultivation. This decision was made during the state cabinet meeting held at Dharamshala in Kangra district on Friday. At present, Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh are engaged in cannabis cultivation, primarily for use in the pharmaceutical sector to prepare medicines. Sources indicate that the agriculture department, designated as the nodal agency, will work out the modalities for beginning cannabis cultivation. The department has been given six months to prepare all the required guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs), including selecting the cannabis species most suitable for the pharmaceutical sector. Additionally, the department will establish seed banks to supply farmers who will be issued licenses, ensuring that the seeds provided contain a low narcotic content. Another significant challenge will be procuring hemp seeds with less than 0.3% THC content to prevent their use for narcotic purposes. The state will also need to create specialised labs to produce high-quality seeds suitable for the medicinal and industrial sectors, according to sources. Furthermore, the state government will need to amend the state Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Rules, 1985, for this purpose and ensure strict regulation, including specialised excise staff for monitoring and enforcement. Last year, the state assembly adopted a resolution endorsing the recommendations of the committee headed by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi to amend the NDPS rules for this purpose. The committee had submitted its report to the state government on September 22, 2023. The report recommended cannabis cultivation for industrial and medicinal use under Sections 10 and 14 of the NDPS Act. The committee suggested allowing the cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes, such as obtaining fibre or seed or for horticultural purposes, in compliance with Section 14 of the NDPS Act, with cultivation limited to open areas. The committee prepared the report after visiting Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand to gather firsthand insights from experts involved in non-narcotic cannabis cultivation.
Opinion: Opinion | India Should Regulate Its Adventure Tourism Sector Before It's Too Late
In October 2024, two foreign nationals had reportedly died in paragliding-related incidents in Kangra district. At least seven paragliders, including foreigners, have been killed in the last 18 months in Himachal Pradesh alone.
Bus catches fire in Himachal's Bilaspur, passengers safe
Bilaspur: The passengers, driver and conductor of an HRTC bus en route from Himachal's Shimla to Kangra had a narrow escape after the bus caught fire near Kandraur in Bilaspur on Thursday.As soon as the driver noticed smoke coming from the engine, he immediately stopped the bus and instructed all the passengers to get out, preventing a major accident, said an official spokesman. The bus was on its way from Shimla to Nagrota Bagwan in Kangra and had eight people on board, including the driver and conductor. The bus conductor, Sandeep Singh, said, All the passengers were evacuated safely in time. A major accident was averted due to the presence of mind of the driver and the local people, he added. When the flames began rising from the bus, people from the nearby village quickly reached the spot. The locals brought water from a nearby hand pump and helped prevent the fire from spreading, he said. As soon as the fire brigade was informed, the team arrived at the scene and completely controlled the fire, the spokesperson said. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but it is believed to have occurred due to a technical fault in the engine, he added.
2 Tourists Die In Separate Paragliding Accidents In Himachal
Two tourists died in two separate paragliding accidents in Kangra and Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh within a span of 24 hours. The tourists were from Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, police said on Saturday.
NABARD's Grameen Bharat Mahotsav Highlights Empowerment of Rural Women and Rural Entrepreneurs
Using traditional looms, including the durable Pit Loom, which enables intricate weaving with pedal operations. Organized into a Handicraft Producer Company Limited and supported by NABARD and Swami Rama Foundation Trust, the members have undergone specialized training and handholding at NIFT Panchkula and NIFT Kangra, with aspirations to expand their reach nationally. Today, they are onboarded on Amazon, Gatha, Exotic and they also have own website. Recently they also exported 5 dhurries to France opening a new horizon of world. The artisans earn an average monthly income of Rs. 10,000, reflecting the success of their efforts. Their work garnered significant attention when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited their stall at the Gram Bharat Mahotsav 2025.
Himachal likely to receive fresh snowfall, rainfall from Jan 2
Mid and high hill areas of Himachal Pradesh are expected to receive fresh snowfall and rainfall from January 2, officials said on Wednesday, while plains and low hills are expected to remain dry. As per the meteorological department, the state is expected to receive snowfall from January 4 to 7 with heavy rainfall on January 5 and 6. Mid and high hill areas are expected to receive fresh snowfall and rainfall from January 2 while plains and low hill areas are expected to remain dry. Meanwhile, the weather was mostly dry across the state during the past 24 hours. The minimum temperature in Shimla was recorded at 7.6 degrees Celsius, Dharamshala at 5.9 degrees Celsius, Manali at 2.4 degrees Celsius, Bhuntar at 2.9 degrees Celsius, Kalpa at minus 3.8 degrees Celsius, Nahan at 6.3 degrees Celsius, Kasauli at 9.2 degrees Celsius, Una at 4.4 degrees Celsius, Kangra at 5.2 degrees Celsius and Mandi at 17.9 degrees Celsius. With a 21.4 degrees Celsius maximum temperature, Sundernagar in Mandi district was the hottest place in the state while Tabo village in tribal district Lahaul and Spiti was the coldest as it recorded minus 16.7 C minimum temperature.
Himachal Police rescues 8,000 tourists, 1,500 vehicles stranded by snowfall at Kullu
CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Police rescued around 8,000 tourists and 1,500 vehicles stranded due to heavy snowfall at Solang Nala of Kullu district on the Manali-Leh highway. Sources said that heavy snowfall affected Lahaul Valley and the Manali area. Traffic was abruptly halted due to a snowstorm leaving vehicles and tourists trapped. The local administration swiftly began rescue operations, by deploying teams of the Kullu Police to ensure the safety of the tourists and other passengers. A senior police official confirmed that all the tourists and vehicles were safely evacuated from snow-bound Solang Nala and transported to a secure location in Manali, away from the affected area. Traffic towards Solang Valley and Lahaul Valley on the Manali-Leh highway beyond Nehru Kund will be restricted in view of public safety. Sources noted that the road is maintained by the BRO, but it lacks evacuation facilities for emergencies, as all-wheel-drive vehicles, snow-clearing equipment, and salt are required to manage heavy snowfall. The district administration had issued warnings to tourists and locals, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel in the area due to the ongoing snowfall and hazardous road conditions. The authorities have been working to clear the highway and restore normalcy, but have cautioned that similar disruptions may occur if the snowfall persists. The administration is monitoring the situation closely and is coordinating with weather agencies to ensure prompt action in case of further weather-related disruptions. Earlier in post of X, Kullu Police wrote, Due to fresh snowfall today on 27.12.2024, about 1000 tourists and other vehicles were stuck in Solang Nala. There were about 5000 tourists in these vehicles. The vehicles and tourists have been rescued by Kullu Police and taken to safe places. The rescue operation is still going on. Heavy rainfall and snowfall were recorded in at least six districts of the state on Friday, including Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, and Kinnaur. The IMD has issued an orange alert for snowfall and cold waves in the state on December 27 and 28. From December 29, a renewed cold wave is expected to impact the plains, including Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Una districts. These areas, along with Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba, are likely to experience severe cold conditions until January 1. The IMD also warned of dense fog in isolated areas on January 1, which could reduce visibility and worsen travel conditions. The IMD has advised residents and travellers to remain cautious and take necessary precautions, especially in snow-affected regions, where road blockages and disruptions are expected.
Himachal seeks free land transfer, grant-in-aid for cantonment areas
CHANDIGARH: The process of bringing six cantonment areas in Himachal Pradesh under municipalities has hit a roadblock. The state government has requested the Union Ministry of Defence (MoD) to transfer civilian area land along with its title rights free of cost to the state during the proposed excision of these cantonment boards. Additionally, it has demanded a special grant-in-aid from the Centre to cover establishment expenses. The move follows a new condition introduced by the ministry, stipulating that the land ownership rights would remain with the Union government even after transferring assets and liabilities from the army to the state governments. Sources revealed that Principal Secretary, Urban Development, Devesh Kumar, wrote to the Director, Defence Estates, Western Command, Yogesh Kumar, on November 27. The letter pointed out that the central government is only transferring the proprietary rights of the land to the state government for providing civic amenities and municipal services in the excised areas without transferring title rights. A copy of the letter, accessed by this newspaper, stated, In this context, on perusal of the guiding principles for excision of civil areas from cantonments and their merger with adjoining state municipalities issued by the Government of India, it seems that the Government of India is only transferring the proprietary rights to the state government over the assets for providing civic amenities and municipal services in the excised area without transferring the title rights over the land to the state government. You would agree that land is a basic factor for the socio-economic development of any area and, in the case concerned, due to rapid urbanisation in and around the cantonment boards, the ownership of land with MoD (GoI) may impede the development of social infrastructure (such as schools, anganwadis, hospitals). In addition, the laying of systems for better sanitation, drinking water, roads, and paths would also make the implementation process cumbersome. The letter further emphasised the need for full implementation of central and state-sponsored schemes for the welfare of civilians residing in these cantonments. It stated, The cantonment boards in the present scenario need the full-throttle application of the central and state-sponsored schemes for the welfare of the civilians residing in these cantonment boards, which requires the transferring of ownership over the built-up (except military stations) and vacant land to the state government, free of cost, on the analogy of cantonment board-khas Yol (Dharamsala) in the year 2023. Additionally, the state government highlighted the need for a special grant-in-aid from the Union Government to manage the establishment expenses, as the liabilities of the cantonment boards amount to Rs 30 crore annuallysix times higher than their revenue generation of Rs 5 crore. The letter also stressed the necessity of assessing the geotechnical feasibility before finalising timelines for separating assets. It stated that providing accessibility to military stations, alternate access to civilian areas, and joint civic amenitiesespecially in Jutogh and Dalhousie cantonmentsneeded careful planning. This correspondence was in response to a letter sent by the MoD to the Himachal Chief Secretary on July 5, asking for feedback on the proposed excision. Earlier, on June 25, the ministry had introduced the condition that land ownership rights would remain with the Union government even after transferring assets and liabilities to the state governments. This marked a shift from the ministrys earlier stance, under which proprietary rights over all assets in excised areas were to be transferred to state governments and municipalities free of cost. Himachal Pradesh has six cantonment boardsKasauli, Dagshai, and Subathu in Solan district; Jutogh in Shimla district; and Bakloh and Dalhousie in Chamba district. The separation of civil and army areas within these cantonments has been a longstanding demand of locals, as they lack ownership rights and are excluded from state-sponsored welfare schemes. Notably, on April 28 last year, Khas Yol Cantonment Board in Kangra district became the first in the country to be de-notified. Its civil area was excised from the cantonment and merged with the local panchayat body.
1,500 vehicles stranded near Atal Tunnel amid heavy snowfall in Himachal; all tourists rescued
CHANDIGARH: Due to heavy snowfall, around 1,500 vehicles were stranded between Solang and the Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway in Himachal Pradesh. Rescue operations have been successfully completed, with all tourists evacuated. As of today, 174 roads, including three national highways, remain blocked in the state due to icy road surface conditions. Sources reported that a fresh spell of heavy snowfall in Manali yesterday left 1,500 vehicles stuck, stranding tourists for hours at Dhundi and at both the north and south portals of the Atal Tunnel. With a long traffic jam worsening the situation, the state police launched a rescue operation, shifting all tourists to safer locations. The rescue teams worked tirelessly throughout the night, assisting drivers in navigating their vehicles and ensuring the safety of all passengers. Most of the stranded vehicles were returned to Manali from the Lahaul side by late night. The rescue operation started at 2 PM yesterday and completed at 10 AM today, said a senior police official. It is learnt that most of the stranded vehicles were tourist cars, many of which were not equipped for snowy road conditions. Civil authorities, along with police officials from the district administration, were present at the site to coordinate rescue efforts. Authorities have advised tourists to travel in 4x4 vehicles designed for snowy terrains and equipped with snow chains for better traction. According to data from the state emergency operation centre, the total number of roads blocked in the hill state as of today stands at 174, including three national highways. Of these, 89 roads are blocked in Shimla district, 44 in Kinnaur, 25 in Mandi, two national highways in Kullu, one in Lahaul and Spiti, six roads in Kangra, three in Una, and one in Chamba district. All roads have been closed due to icy surface conditions. Earlier, Shimla was blanketed in a pristine sheet of snow, bringing hope and joy to the city. The snowfall, which began after a two-week gap since the first snowfall on 8 December, has not only delighted visitors but also rejuvenated the spirits of the local tourism industry, which has been struggling to recover from losses inflicted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Alternative route to Leh-Ladakh: MoD seeks transport ministry nod for tunnel
CHANDIGARH: The Union Ministry of Defence has recommended that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) approve the construction of the Bhubhu Jot tunnel. This tunnel will connect Jogindernagar in the Mandi district with the Kullu district via the Lag Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is proposed that this route be designated as a project of strategic importance, serving as an alternative route to Leh-Ladakh. In its communication, the Defence Ministry emphasized the crucial role that this highway and tunnel will serve as an alternative route to Leh-Ladakh, thereby greatly improving the operational readiness of the armed forces stationed in forward areas. In addition to its strategic importance, the tunnel is anticipated to provide significant socio-economic benefits to the region. Consequently, budgetary provisions for this project will now be made. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the path for the construction of the much-awaited tunnel in the state has been cleared. He reaffirmed the state governments unwavering commitment to the project. I personally met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 25 to request prioritisation of this project while considering its strategic importance. The issue was also raised with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. The construction of this tunnel would be a milestone for the development of the state. he said. The proposed Bhubu Jot Tunnel aims to reduce the distance between Kangra and Kullu by 55 kilometers. Once completed, it will also shorten the travel distance between Kullu and Dharamsala or Pathankot. The tunnel will start in Kullu and connect to the Mandi-Pathankot National Highway at Ghatasni via the Lag Valley, Bhubu Jot, and Shilh-Badhwani. This project is expected to provide significant benefits to the local population, boost tourism in the region, and strengthen the economy of the people.
Chief Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan A Towering Personality the Jammu Kashmir is proud of
By Ravi Rohmetra Mehar Chand Mahajan was born in a small village called Tika Nagrota in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and rose to the Chief Justice of India, the highest honour the country could offer. Rejected at birth on the grounds of weak Zodiac signs, he was brought up in a Rajput peasant [] The post Chief Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan A Towering Personality the Jammu Kashmir is proud of appeared first on Northlines .
Defence Ministry recommends MoRTH approval for Bhubhu Jot tunnel in Himachal
CHANDIGARH: The Union Ministry of Defence has recommended the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) for approval of the Bhubhu Jot tunnel in Himachal Pradesh as an alternative route to Leh-Ladakh to be designated as a project of strategic importance. The Ministry of Defence highlighted the critical role the highway and tunnel would play, significantly enhancing the operational readiness of the armed forces in forward areas. Apart from its strategic significance, the tunnel was expected to bring substantial socio-economic benefits to the region and budgetary provisions for the project will now be made accordingly. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the he path for the construction of the much-awaited Bhubu Jot Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh has been cleared and he reaffirmed the state governments unwavering commitment to the Bhubu Jot Tunnel project. I personally met the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 25 to request prioritization of this project while considering its strategic importance. The issue was also raised with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. The construction of this tunnel would be a milestone for the development of the state, he said. The proposed Bhubu Jot Tunnel would reduce the distance between Kangra and Kullu by 55 kilometers once it is completed, the distance between Kullu and Dharamsala or Pathankot will be reduced. The road will begin from Kullu and join the Mandi-Pathankot National Highway at Ghatasni via Lag Valley, Bhubu Jot and Shilh-Badhwaniand and will deliver immense benefits to the local population and boosting tourism in the region thereby strengthening the economy of the people. The state government was prioritizing tunnel construction to enhance road connectivity, promote sustainable development and minimize environmental impact. The construction of the Bhubu Jot Tunnel would be a transformative step for the development of Himachal Pradesh. This project would not only strengthen strategic infrastructure but also catalyze socio-economic growth in the region, Sukhu added. Bhubu Jot remains covered with heavy snow during winter and the proposed tunnel will provide all-weather road connectivity. The tunnel is strategically important as it will reduce the distance from Pathankot to Manali by around 63 km and lessen the travel time by two hours. Former Chief Minister PK Dhumal had announced its construction in 2009.
Orange warning sounded in Himachal for severe cold wave in lower hills
Severe cold wave is likely to persist at isolated places in Una, Bilapsur, Hamirpur and Mandi districts, with cold wave in Kangra and ground frost in Kangra and Kullu districts till Saturday
Himachal receives seasons first snowfall, 87 roads closed
Shimla, Dec 9: Himachal Pradesh witnessed its first snowfall of the season which led to the closure of at least 87 roads in the state, including Atari-Leh National Highway 3 near Manalis Rohtang Pass, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) said. A total of 58 roads were closed in Shimla, followed by 17 in Kinnaur, six in Kangra, two in Lahaul and Spiti, one each in Kullu and Chamba districts. Some parts of Himachal suffered power outrages as 457 transformers [] The post Himachal receives seasons first snowfall, 87 roads closed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
800 people rescued from Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh amid heavy snowfall
CHANDIGARH: Around 800 stranded people were rescued from Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh after heavy snow on Sunday night. As many as 87 roads were closed for traffic following snowfall across the state. In the first in two decades, Shimla and adjoining tourist towns of Kufri and Fagu yesterday evening experienced the season's first snowfall in early December, with the hospitality industry eyeing a surge of tourists. The Lahaul-Spiti police rescued around 800 stranded people, among the rescued 489 vehicles, over 400 belonged to the tourists due to heavy snow on Sunday night. A thin layer of snow covered Lahaul, affecting traffic as slippery road conditions made commuting hazardous. Superintendent of Police, Mayank Chaudhary said,``The rescue was carried out by a team from Keylong police station, police lines, Keylong; Traffic Police Post, Sarchu and Police Post, Kokser with the help of local volunteers. The prompt and efficient action by the rescue team ensured the safe evacuation. While, intermittent snowfall continued in the higher reaches of Lahaul and Spiti district and intensified cold conditions in the adjoining valleys. Of these 58 roads in Shimla district mostly in sub-divisions of Rohru, Jubbal and Kotkhai, were closed. In Kinnaur, 17 roads were affected, 12 in Pooh and Kalpa block. While the Rohtang Pass National Highway was closed beyond Gulaba check post for traffic due to black ice. Also electricity supply was effected due to the snowfall as over 457 lines were disrupted in Chamba, Mandi and Sirmaur districts. As per the weather department, significant snowfall was recorded at Khoksar (6.7 cm), Khadrala (5 cm), Sangla (3.6 cm), Keylong (3.0 cm), and Shimla (2.5 cm) and also light rain was recorded at many places and there is a possibility of light rain and snowfall in the districts of Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu and Kinnaur over the next few hours. Meanwhile, some areas of district Sirmaur are likely to get light rain. As per the forecast, there will be scattered to fairly widespread precipitation likely to occur over the state as light to moderate rain or snow fall very likely at few places over Lahaul and Spiti,Chamba, Kinnaur, Kangra, Shimla and Kullu districts and light precipitation very likely at few places over Solan, Sirmaur, Una, Bilaspur, Mandi and Hamirpur districts. Also Light rain and snowfall likely at isolated places over mid and high hills of the state on December 10. While the minimum and maximum temperatures will gradually fall by 3 to 4 degrees across the state. Also dense fog over some parts of reservoir area of Bhakra dam (Bilaspur) and Balh valley (Mandi) during early morning, morning and late night hours on December 10 and 11 besides thunderstorms and lightning in low and mid hills of the state.
HP Panchayat official who bullied Kashmiri shawl sellers suspended
Dharamsala (HP), Dec 6: A woman Panchayat official, who was caught on camera warning two shawl sellers from Kashmir against trading their wares in Himachal Pradesh, has been suspended for hurting religious sentiments, officials said on Friday. The panchayat samiti member from Jaisinghpur in Kangra district was earlier booked for promoting disharmony and insulting religious [] The post HP Panchayat official who bullied Kashmiri shawl sellers suspended appeared first on Northlines .
Trekking above 3,000 metres in Himachals Kangra district temporarily banned
Dharamshala (HP), Nov 27: Trekking activities above 3,000 metres in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradeshs Kangra district have been prohibited until further notice, announced Deputy Commissioner (DC) Hemraj Bairwa on Wednesday. The DC explained that the order was issued to ensure public safety, given the regions harsh topography and the risks associated with winter snowfall. As per the directive, prior permission from the Superintendent of Police (SP) Kangra is required for trekking on low-altitude routes such as Kareri, Triund [] The post Trekking above 3,000 metres in Himachals Kangra district temporarily banned appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
